Authorities have identified 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen, a mechanical engineer and amateur video game developer from California, as the suspect in a shooting incident near the White House Correspondents' Dinner.
Allen, who has a master's degree in computer science from California State University-Dominguez Hills and a bachelor's in mechanical engineering from Caltech, was reportedly staying at a Washington D.C. hotel hosting the event.
Online profiles described Allen as a part-time teacher at C2 Education for six years and a self-employed game developer. A former professor described him as a polite and attentive student.
Reports indicate Allen was carrying firearms and knives when he entered the hotel lobby. Shots were fired outside the ballroom where high-profile officials, journalists, and celebrities were present. Authorities believe Allen acted alone and are investigating his motive, with initial reports suggesting he intended to target Trump administration officials.
He was apprehended at the scene and is expected to face firearm and assault charges. The suspect was evaluated at a hospital and sustained no injuries.