The FBI has cordoned off and searched this Sunday the home of the alleged perpetrator of the attempted attack against Donald Trump, after the shooting registered during the annual White House Correspondents' Dinner in Washington. The operation took place in Torrance, California, the town where the suspect resided, identified by US media as Cole Tomas Allen, 31 years old.
The federal action is part of the investigation opened to clarify the motive of the attack, determine if he acted alone, and reconstruct how he managed to access armed to the surroundings of the Washington Hilton, where the event was being held with the presence of the US president, the first lady Melania Trump, members of the Government, and numerous journalists.
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According to initial reports, federal agents and local forces deployed a wide security perimeter around the detainee's residence a few hours after the attack. Investigators are looking for computer equipment, documentation, weapons, digital communications, and any indication that would allow them to determine if there was prior planning or possible connections with third parties.
The FBI has not officially detailed the content of the search, but it has confirmed that the investigation is being developed as a top priority as it concerns an attack against the sitting president.
What happened in Washington
The incident took place during the traditional White House Correspondents' Dinner, one of the most symbolic political and media events in the US capital. According to the preliminary reconstruction, an armed man burst into the hotel's security area and attempted to advance towards the main hall.
The agents of the Secret Service reacted immediately, subdued the suspect and evacuated Trump and the rest of the attendees. One agent was injured, although not seriously.
Trump left the premises unharmed and later thanked the performance of the security teams.
Detainee Profile
Various American media outlets point out that Allen resided in Torrance, south of Los Angeles, and had technical and academic training. They also suggest that he worked as a part-time professor and freelance developer, although authorities have not yet offered a complete official profile.
Investigators are now examining his recent activity, possible social media posts, and psychological or criminal background.
Investigation open
Federal authorities are studying several hypotheses, including individual action without external support, although for the moment no definitive political motivation has been communicated. It is also not ruled out that there were previous undetected signs.
The case again places presidential security in the United States in the foreground and the growing concern about political violence in the country, after several recent episodes directed against Trump.