Hilton shooting suspect named after Washington arrest

US officials identified Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of Torrance, California, as the person arrested after a shooting at the Washington Hilton hotel on Saturday night. Officials said Allen is scheduled to appear in court on Monday, while key details about charges and evidence have not been released.

The incident occurred during the White House Correspondents' Dinner. Police said shots were fired on a level above a room where former President Trump and cabinet members were present, placing the gunfire in close proximity to a high-profile political gathering.

Gunfire near event as suspect detained

Police said Allen exchanged fire with security agents before he was taken into custody. Officials said the suspect was contained before reaching his objective, without providing further specifics about how that containment was achieved.

After his detention, Allen told officials he intended to shoot members of the Trump administration, according to two sources cited by CBS. Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche said the suspect was targeting administration officials, likely including the president.

Reported online activity and alleged manifesto

US media, citing law enforcement sources, reported that Allen had a history of anti-Trump social media posts. Accounts linked to Allen included posts on X and Bluesky that expressed critical views of former President Trump and other US political figures.

A document described as a manifesto was reportedly sent to family members before the incident. The document indicated an intention to target Trump administration officials and said that while guests and hotel staff were not primary targets, they would be engaged if necessary to reach officials.

Weapons cited by police and unresolved legal questions

Police confirmed Allen was armed with a shotgun, a handgun, and multiple knives. Officials also described Allen as someone who portrayed himself as a mechanical engineer, game developer, and teacher.

Authorities have not provided additional details about Monday’s court appearance beyond the schedule. It remains unclear from the information released what specific charges will be filed or what further evidence authorities plan to present in court.