preCharge News CALIFORNIA — Cole Thomas Allen, the suspected gunman who tried to attack the White House Correspondents’ Dinner Saturday night, left behind a written “manifesto” stating his intent to target officials in the Trump administration, a senior U.S. official told preCharge News.

Donald Trump and Melania Trump were safely evacuated from the dinner, and no attendees suffered serious injuries, authorities said.

A United States Secret Service agent was struck by at least one round but was protected by a bulletproof vest and is expected to recover.

Suspect Apprehended at Scene With Multiple Weapons

Allen, 31, was taken into custody at the scene. Officials said he was armed with a shotgun, handgun and multiple knives when he attempted to breach a security checkpoint outside the Washington Hilton.

At least five to eight shots were fired during the incident, according to law enforcement sources.

In a late-night news conference, D.C. Metropolitan Police interim chief Jeff Carroll said the suspect was subdued and taken to a hospital for evaluation. Authorities confirmed Allen had checked into the hotel the day before the event.

Investigation Focuses on Motive and Writings

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is leading a criminal investigation, while the Secret Service is examining the suspect’s background and potential motives.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said investigators believe Allen specifically targeted members of the Trump administration.

Manifesto and Digital Evidence Under Review

Investigators recovered written materials believed to outline the suspect’s motivations. Some of these writings were sent to family members prior to the attack, prompting one relative to alert authorities.

Officials are also reviewing Allen’s cellphone and electronic devices as part of the investigation. Law enforcement sources said the suspect is not cooperating, though acquaintances are being interviewed.

“At this point, it does appear he is a lone actor,” Carroll said, a characterization echoed by President Trump, who described the suspect as a “lone wolf.”

Background of Suspect Raises Questions

Allen was an educator from Torrance, California, with degrees in mechanical engineering and computer science. He graduated from the California Institute of Technology in 2017 and later earned a master’s degree from California State University, Dominguez Hills.

A LinkedIn profile linked to Allen describes him as a video game developer and part-time teacher. He previously worked for a tutoring firm and received a “Teacher of the Month” award in 2024.

Firearm Ownership and Travel Timeline

Authorities said Allen legally purchased the shotgun used in the attack in August 2025 and owned a semiautomatic pistol.

He traveled by train from Los Angeles to Chicago and then to Washington, D.C., arriving shortly before the event.

Family members told investigators that Allen had made increasingly radical statements and frequently visited shooting ranges. They also said he referenced plans to take action to address perceived societal issues.

Charges Filed, More Expected

Jeanine Pirro announced that Allen will face charges including use of a firearm during a crime of violence and assault on a federal officer with a dangerous weapon.

“It is clear… that this individual was intent on doing as much harm and as much damage as he could,” Pirro said.

Potential Additional Charges Under Review

Officials said more charges could follow as investigators determine motive and premeditation.

Allen is expected to be arraigned in federal court, with prosecutors indicating an indictment will likely follow.

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Associated Press, CNBC News, Fox News, and preCharge News contributed to this report.