A video posted by U.S. President Donald Trump shows an alleged gunman dashing past security barricades in a hotel lobby as a gala dinner honouring journalists got underway in Washington.
In the video, several Secret Service agents are shown pointing their guns at the suspect as he ran towards the ballroom of the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner on Saturday night before he was eventually tackled to the ground.
One officer wearing a bullet-resistant vest was shot and is recovering, according to authorities. Trump and key officials from his administration were not hurt in the shooting at the Washington Hilton.
Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of Torrance, Calif., was arrested, according to authorities. He was reportedly carrying two firearms and knives.
The man, a tutor and computer engineer, is expected in court Monday.
Authorities believe the attack was politically motivated. Officials said the suspect will face charges, including using a firearm during a crime of violence and assault on a federal officer, The Associated Press reported Sunday.
The Associated Press obtained a copy of a message Allen sent to family members minutes before the attack. In the message, Allen denounced the Trump administration’s recent actions. Allen referred to himself as the “Friendly Federal Assassin.”
Trump saw the shooting as a third attempt on his life in less than two years. He suggested his personal politics made him a target but called for unity.
With files from The Associated Press
