Prosecutors Say Trump Attack Suspect Clicked Selfie Before Assault
Allen posed with pistol holster, knives, ammo bag at 8:03 PM before breach attempt.
A man accused of attempting to assassinate Donald Trump took a selfie in his hotel room moments before launching the attack at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner, according to U.S. prosecutors. The image, now part of court evidence, is being cited to demonstrate the level of preparation and intent behind the alleged plot.
Prosecutors identified the suspect as Cole Tomas Allen, a 31-year-old from California, who allegedly documented himself armed with multiple weapons shortly before the incident. The selfie, reportedly taken around 8:03 p.m., shows him dressed in dark clothing and carrying firearms and other equipment, including knives and ammunition.
Authorities allege that within roughly half an hour of taking the photograph, Allen attempted to breach a security checkpoint at the Washington Hilton, where the high-profile dinner was being held. He is accused of charging toward the venue with a shotgun, triggering a rapid response from the Secret Service and other law enforcement personnel.
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Court filings indicate that the attack was premeditated, with investigators uncovering evidence that the suspect had planned the assault for weeks. Prosecutors said Allen had studied Trump’s schedule, travelled across states to reach Washington, and carried a cache of weapons intended for the attack.
During the incident, at least one shot was fired near the security area, and a law enforcement officer was injured, though authorities are still examining the exact sequence of events. Conflicting accounts have emerged regarding who fired the shot that struck the officer, adding complexity to the investigation.
Allen has been charged with attempting to assassinate the president, along with multiple firearms-related offences, and could face life in prison if convicted. Prosecutors are seeking his continued detention, arguing that the evidence—including the selfie and other materials—demonstrates a significant threat to public safety.
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