Mirror selfie of suspect released in White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting probe
Authorities investigating shooting outside the WHCD say Secret Service officer was not struck by friendly fire
A mirror selfie allegedly showing the suspect in the hours leading up to the shooting outside the White House Correspondents’ Dinner has been released as investigators continue to piece together the events of the attack in Washington, D.C.
According to multiple senior law enforcement officials cited in reports from CBS News, investigators have concluded that the bullet which struck a US Secret Service officer during the incident was not friendly fire.
The shooting occurred on Saturday outside the ballroom area of the Washington Hilton, where security was in place for the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner. Officials say the suspect, identified as 31-year-old Cole Allen, allegedly fired a shotgun after charging toward a security checkpoint.
Investigators believe a total of six shots were discharged during the confrontation — one by the suspect and five fired by the Secret Service officer, who was responding to the threat.
Authorities say the round that hit the officer was likely deflected by a cellphone stored in his bulletproof vest, preventing more serious injury.
Allen, from Torrance, California, was arrested at the scene and did not sustain injuries during the incident.
He is facing multiple federal charges, including attempted assassination of the president of the United States and firearms-related offences tied to interstate transport and violent crime.
He appeared in federal court for the first time earlier this week but did not enter a plea as proceedings continue.
Officials say the investigation remains ongoing as they examine motive, planning and the suspect’s movements before the attack.