The White House reported that the suspected gunman involved in the shooting at Saturday's Correspondents’ Dinner allegedly possessed a manifesto explicitly stating his intent to target administration officials. This information was reportedly relayed to law enforcement by the suspect's family shortly before the incident occurred.
Investigation Details and Warning Signs
The White House confirmed that Cole Tomas Allen’s brother notified the New London Police Department in Connecticut regarding the alleged manifesto. According to officials, Allen had sent this document to his family members minutes before the shooting.
- Law Enforcement Action: The family subsequently alerted the police shortly before the incident.
- Interviews Conducted: The U.S. Secret Service and Montgomery County Police interviewed Allen’s sister at the family residence in Rockville, Maryland.
Suspect's Background and Rhetoric
During questioning, Allen's sister provided authorities with several details regarding her brother's behavior and activities:
- Radical Tendencies: She stated that Allen had a tendency toward making radical statements and that his rhetoric referenced a plan to commit an act.
- Firearm Acquisition: She confirmed that Allen had purchased two handguns and a shotgun from CAP Tactical Firearms, which were stored at their parents' home without the parents' knowledge.
- Affiliations and Protests: The sister reported that Allen regularly visited the shooting range for training and was a member of a group called “The Wide Awakes.” Furthermore, she noted that he had previously attended an anti-Trump protest in California, described as a “No Kings” event.
Official Statements
- White House Assessment: The White House stated that Allen’s social media accounts displayed rhetoric that was heavily anti-Trump and anti-Christian.
- President Trump's Comments: President Trump commented on the event on Fox News, praising the security response. He stated, “They were strong, and the Secret Service, I thought they were outstanding. They stopped him cold.”
- Police Response: The New London Police Department declined to comment on the details but indicated it would issue a formal statement later that day.
