A suspect accused of opening fire at a US press gala has been formally charged with attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump, prosecutors announced Monday.
Cole Tomas Allen, the alleged gunman, was taken into custody shortly after the Saturday evening attack that sent panicked guests scrambling for cover. The shooting, which occurred at a venue hosting a gathering of journalists and political figures, left two people injured before security personnel subdued Allen.
"This was not a random act of violence," said District Attorney Rachel Harmon in a press conference. "The evidence clearly shows that Allen attempted to assassinate the president of the United States."
Authorities have not yet disclosed a possible motive, but investigators are examining Allen's digital footprint and interviewing acquaintances. The FBI has joined the probe, treating the incident as a potential act of domestic terrorism.
Trump, who was not present at the gala, issued a statement condemning the attack and thanking law enforcement for their swift response. "We must stand united against such heinous acts," the former president said.
The two injured victims, a security guard and a journalist, are reported to be in stable condition. Allen is being held without bail pending a preliminary hearing scheduled for next week.