The suspect, identified as Cole Tomas Allen, is facing preliminary charges for using a firearm during a crime of violence and assault on a federal officer using a dangerous weapon. He attempted to enter the ballroom at the Washington Hilton but was tackled to the ground and taken to a hospital for evaluation. The incident occurred during the White House Correspondents' Dinner, which resulted in multiple shots being fired and injuries to a Secret Service officer. Allen was carrying a gun, handgun, and multiple knives. His home in Torrance was searched after FBI agents were denied entry due to conflicting information. Allen is a highly educated tutor and amateur video game developer who graduated with a master's degree from California State University Dominguez Hills. He contributed $25 to a Democratic Party political action committee supporting Kamala Harris for president in 2024.