The man accused of opening fire at a high-profile media dinner in Washington, D.C. attended by former U.S. President Donald Trump is scheduled to be arraigned on Monday, according to federal prosecutors.
Authorities identified the suspect as Cole Tomas Allen, who allegedly exchanged gunfire with agents of the United States Secret Service during the incident. He was subdued at the scene without being shot and taken into custody.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said the defendant will face charges including using a firearm during a violent crime and assaulting a federal officer with a dangerous weapon. He is expected to appear before a U.S. District Court judge in the capital.
Speaking at a briefing after the incident, Trump said the attack would not affect his stance on the ongoing conflict involving Iran. While noting that investigators were still working to determine a motive, he said he did not believe the shooting was directly connected to the war, describing the suspect as acting alone.
Earlier in the day, Trump had cancelled a planned diplomatic visit by his envoys to Pakistan aimed at facilitating talks with Iran, citing dissatisfaction with Tehran’s position after weeks of hostilities.
Law enforcement officials continue to review evidence as they piece together the events and possible motivations behind the attack.
