Man charged with trying to kill Trump took hotel room selfie before rushing gala, investigators say

Key Points:

• Cole Allen, charged with attempting to storm the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner and assassinate President Trump, was photographed minutes before the event wearing tactical gear including an ammunition bag, gun holster, and knife, according to prosecutors.
• Allen tried to breach security barricades at the Washington Hilton during the gala, leading to an exchange of gunfire with Secret Service agents; Trump was unharmed, while a Secret Service officer was shot but survived due to a bullet-resistant vest.
• Prosecutors revealed Allen had planned the attack for weeks, traveling cross-country, reserving a hotel room near the event, and monitoring live coverage of Trump’s arrival; they argue he poses a serious danger and should remain in custody.
• Defense attorneys reported restricted and inadequate access to Allen in jail, prompting a judge to order the jail to allow unrestricted private visits between Allen and his lawyers ahead of his Thursday hearing.
• President Trump described Allen as a "lone wolf" attacker and noted the incident disrupted a high-profile event, emphasizing the perceived threat against impactful figures like himself.