What we know about the incident

Pictures emerged showing FBI agents and police searching a California address believed linked to the suspect.

US Attorney for Washington, Jeanine Pirro, said the suspect faced two counts for using firearms during a crime of violence and assault on federal officers with a dangerous weapon, and would be formally charged on Monday in federal court.

The California Institute of Technology confirmed that Allen graduated from Caltech in 2017, with no further details provided.

Washington DC interim police chief Jeffery Carroll said the alleged gunman was a hotel guest at the Hilton and was armed with a shotgun, a handgun, and multiple knives.

Media reported the suspect as Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of Torrance, California. He had worked for C2 Education, a Torrance tutoring firm; a December 2024 Teacher of the Month award is noted. The Torrance Unified School District said he was never employed by the district. Caltech confirmed he graduated in 2017.

About an hour after the incident, Trump stated a 'very sick man' had been taken into custody after charging the Washington Hilton with a powerful weapon. He said one Secret Service agent was shot at very close range but saved by his bullet-proof vest and was doing well.

A second Truth Social post said law enforcement had requested that the President and the First Lady leave the White House premises.

President Trump wrote on Truth Social that the shooter had been apprehended and stated he had recommended continuing the show, while noting he would be guided by law enforcement.

The event was delayed and later rescheduled as attendees were ushered from the room to safety.

Inside the ballroom, Trump and Melania were seated when loud bangs were heard. Security moved to the stage with weapons; attendees took cover under circular tables as the room was briefly locked down.

CCTV footage circulated showing a person rushing past security officers, who then chased him down the hallway. CBS cited police sources indicating at least five to eight shots were fired.

The US Secret Service said no one was injured and a suspect was taken into custody. US media reported the suspect as Cole Tomas Allen, 31.

Gunshots were reported at the Washington Hilton during the White House Correspondents' Dinner, prompting the evacuation of President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump. Security officials indicated shots were fired on the premises and security personnel began the response.