The man accused of attempting to assassinate President Trump at the White House Correspondents' Dinner lived with his parents in Torrance, California, a quiet coastal suburb often nicknamed "Bore-ance" by locals.
Neighbors of Cole Thomas Allen, 31, expressed shock upon seeing his face on television following his arrest at the Washington D.C. event. "It's bizarre that this person lives two blocks away from your house," stated resident Vince Terrazzino. Law enforcement searched Allen's home after his arrest. Prosecutors allege Allen informed relatives of his plans to target members of the Trump administration. He was reportedly carrying a semi-automatic handgun, a pump-action shotgun, and knives when he breached a security checkpoint at the dinner, leading to an exchange of gunfire that injured a Secret Service agent.
While some residents noted Allen's quiet demeanor and the friendly nature of his parents, many indicated they only knew him casually. Colleagues at a tutoring center where Allen worked described him as withdrawn and someone who avoided eye contact.
Allen previously studied at the California Institute of Technology (CalTech). His former pastor described him as quiet and dedicated to his studies.
Some neighbors pointed out the irony that the affluent suburb has also been home to notable figures like Olympic runner Louis Zamperini, suggesting that "good things also come out of Torrance."