US Secret Service thwarts armed attack at White House correspondents’ dinner

WASHINGTON, April 26 (YPA) – US Secret Service agents intercepted an armed suspect on Saturday night at the Washington Hilton during the White House correspondents’ dinner.

The incident, which occurred while President Donald Trump was in attendance, resulted in the injury of a security officer and the immediate apprehension of the assailant.

The gunman, later identified by authorities as Cole Thomas Allen, 31, of California, approached a Secret Service security checkpoint inside the hotel where he was a registered guest. Allen opened fire at close range, striking a Secret Service officer. President Trump later confirmed that the officer was saved by his bulletproof vest and is in “excellent condition.”

Cole Thomas Allen underwent a medical and psychiatric evaluation immediately after his arrest. Authorities seized a shotgun, a handgun, and several knives that were with him. The suspect faces two charges, which are assaulting federal officers with a dangerous weapon and use of a firearm during a violent crime.

Following the gunfire, President Donald Trump was swiftly evacuated from the venue by his security detail and remained unharmed. The President later posted images of the subdued suspect on the “Truth Social” platform. While the suspect is in custody, federal authorities are continuing their investigation to determine a motive for the attack.

YPA