In the ongoing investigation into Saturday's shooting at the White House Correspondents' Dinner security checkpoint, new details from Cole Tomas Allen's manifesto—sent to family members who alerted authorities—reveal his prioritized hit list of Trump administration officials, security critiques, and apologies. As previously reported, the attack prompted the evacuation of President Trump and others, with charges now filed against the 31-year-old suspect.
Following initial reports on the suspect's identification and the evacuation of President Trump, First Lady Melania, Vice President JD Vance, and top officials from the Washington Hilton gala, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche detailed Allen's assault on the checkpoint, armed with a shotgun, handgun, and knives. A Secret Service officer, shot but protected by a bulletproof vest, was released from the hospital Sunday.
The manifesto, emailed to family Saturday night and reviewed by CBS News, outlined plans to target Trump administration officials 'prioritized from highest-ranking to lowest,' excluding FBI Director Kash Patel. Allen stated he did not primarily intend to harm law enforcement, hotel staff, or guests but would if necessary, noting, 'I really hope it doesn't come to that.' He chose buckshot to minimize casualties and lambasted hotel security lapses, claiming an Iranian agent could smuggle heavier weapons undetected.
In a matter-of-fact tone, the 31-year-old mechanical engineer from Torrance, California, apologized to family, colleagues, and students, even joking about a future 'Most Wanted' interview. He preempted objections based on his biracial background or Christian faith, arguing no one else was addressing perceived administration crimes.
Allen's brother, alarmed by the email, called police in New London, Connecticut. His sister told investigators of his frequent radical rhetoric on societal fixes. Authorities found more writings at his Torrance home and in his 10th-floor Hilton room. As covered earlier, the First Amendment-celebrating event for over 2,500 attendees was canceled, with Trump planning a reschedule within 30 days.
