Overview
- Federal prosecutors moved the case forward Monday with an arraignment for Cole Tomas Allen, following Saturday night's shooting at the Washington Hilton that left a Secret Service officer bruised but alive.
- Investigators say Allen, 31, traveled by train from Los Angeles through Chicago to Washington, checked into the Hilton as a guest, brought a shotgun, a handgun, and knives, and rushed a checkpoint one floor above the ballroom before he was stopped.
- Authorities are reviewing writings described as a manifesto that Allen sent to family minutes before the attack, where he called himself a “Friendly Federal Assassin,” mocked security, and said he intended to target administration officials.
- U.S. prosecutors say Allen faces counts including using a firearm during a crime of violence and assault on a federal officer with a dangerous weapon, while agents analyze his devices and search his Torrance home for evidence.
- Scrutiny of event security has intensified as officials examine how a registered guest reached a checkpoint, with lawmakers seeking briefings and the president pointing to the episode to argue for a secure White House ballroom.