A federal court in Washington has charged Cole Allen, suspected of opening fire during the White House Correspondents' Association dinner, reports Todayinfo.
He is charged with attempted assassination of the US president, use of a firearm during a violent crime, and interstate transportation of a firearm with intent to commit a felony. Under US law, if convicted, he faces life in prison.
According to the prosecution, the suspect crossed several states while planning the attack on the president. Police found a 12-gauge pump-action shotgun, knives, and other weapons in his possession. A detention hearing is scheduled for Thursday, with a preliminary hearing set for May 11.
Allen has not yet commented on whether he will plead guilty to the charges. The 31-year-old California teacher had no prior criminal record.
The shooting occurred on the night of April 26 at the Washington Hilton hotel, where the annual White House Correspondents' Association dinner was taking place with Trump and other high-ranking officials in attendance. The gunman was armed with a shotgun, pistol, and knives. He was detained at the entrance to the hall. Authorities believe the man acted alone and had arrived in Washington in advance — he had been staying at the hotel where the event was held for several days but did not have an invitation.
