What do we know about the attack?
A man identified by authorities as 31-year-old Cole Allen from Torrance, California, allegedly attempted to breach a security checkpoint at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday. He was reportedly armed with a shotgun, a handgun, and several knives.
The situation escalated into a brief but alarming exchange of gunfire in the hotel lobby before Allen was subdued by agents.
During the confrontation, one Secret Service agent was hit by a bullet but fortunately was protected by a bulletproof vest, avoiding serious injury. The incident involved up to eight shots being fired.
Despite the swift response by security personnel, Allen managed to get within 100 yards of President Trump and several high-profile officials.
President Trump, along with First Lady Melania Trump and Vice President JD Vance, were quickly escorted off the ballroom stage as Secret Service agents engaged in a shootout with the gunman.
Authorities disclosed that Allen, a 31-year-old teacher and known Democrat supporter, had registered as a guest at the hotel prior to the incident.
