Washington, Apr 27:
A shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner has triggered fresh concerns over political violence in the United States, with investigators pointing to a manifesto as key evidence of motive.
Authorities say the suspect, identified as Cole Tomas Allen, sent a manifesto to family members shortly before opening fire near the event venue in Washington, D.C. The document reportedly outlined plans to target senior officials linked to the administration of Donald Trump.
According to officials, the attacker prioritised high-ranking government figures and indicated willingness to harm others if necessary to reach them.
“I am no longer willing to permit a pedophile, rapist, and traitor to coat my hands with his crimes,” gunman Cole Allen allegedly wrote in the manifesto, released by the NY Post.
The shooting occurred near a security checkpoint outside the main ballroom, prompting immediate evacuation of Trump and other dignitaries. A Secret Service agent was injured but protected by a bulletproof vest, and no fatalities were reported.
Investigators believe the attack was politically motivated, with the manifesto expressing strong grievances against the Trump administration.