President Donald Trump stated this Sunday that the person who fired shots during the dinner of Associação of Correspondentes of Casa Branca acted out of hatred for Christians. The statement came after analyzing a manifesto written by the suspect. The incident occurred on Saturday night at the Washington Hilton hotel in Washington. Agentes of Serviço Secreto restrained the man before he reached the main hall.
Nenhum guest suffered serious injuries. A security officer was hit in the bulletproof vest. The suspect was detained at the scene.
Declaração from Trump on suspect’s motivation
Trump spoke to Fox News and said that the shooter had a lot of hate in his heart for a long time. Segundo the president, the manifesto made clear the strong feeling against Christians. Ele classified the author as someone disturbed who carried this resentment.
The suspect’s family had already reported behavioral difficulties. Trump mentioned that relatives knew about the problem, but didn’t imagine it would get to this point. The president highlighted that security acted quickly and prevented the man from approaching those present.
- Trump read excerpts that indicated a repudiation of Christian values
- The document was sent to family members minutes before the shooting
- The suspect criticized positions associated with Christianity in writings
- Agentes found the material during the initial seizure
- Investigadores confirm anti-Christian tone in the text
Suspeito identified and initial profile
Cole Tomas Allen, 31 years old, is from Torrance, at Califórnia. Ele worked as a teacher and developed games in the region. Allen was staying at Washington Hilton, the same hotel that hosted the annual press event.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche reported that the suspect traveled by train from Los Angeles to Washington. Ele arrived at the hotel a day or two before dinner. Authorities believe the target included administration employees and possibly Trump himself.
Detalhes from the hotel incident
The shooting began near the security screening area. The sound of gunshots generated an immediate reaction among the guests. Equipes of Serviço Secreto removed Trump, the First Lady Melania Trump and other members of the government to a protected location.
The event brought together journalists, authorities and public figures in an annual tradition. The 2026 edition was interrupted by the incident, but continued safely after containment. Allen was carrying a shotgun, pistol and several knives.
Investigação federal in progress
Agentes of the FBI isolated a residence linked to Allen in the region of Los Angeles this Sunday. Eles scans documents, electronic devices and other items. The manifesto sent to the family minutes before the action reinforces the line of personal motivation.
Autoridades is still investigating whether there was broader planning or whether it was an isolated action. The suspect was taken for medical evaluation and later taken into custody. Não has reported fatalities so far.
The Associação by Correspondentes by Casa Branca dinner takes place every year in the American capital. Desta instead, the initial focus of coverage turned to the security incident.