Authorities have identified the suspect in the Washington Hilton shooting as Cole Allen, a 31-year-old from Torrance, California.
The incident occurred during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, a major annual event attended by journalists and public officials.
According to available records, Allen has a background in engineering and software development.
He studied mechanical engineering at California Institute of Technology and graduated in 2017.
The institution confirmed that an individual with that name completed a degree during that year.
In 2014, Allen reported participating in a summer research program at NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
His work there was described as related to astrophysics research.
During his academic years, he also developed video game projects, including a physics-based title called “First Law.”
Another project, titled “Bohrdom,” was described as a two-dimensional game released on Steam.
His profiles also listed experience with robotics-related academic projects.
Allen later worked with C2 Education, where he was recognized in a company post in 2024.
He continued his education at California State University, Dominguez Hills, earning a master’s degree in computer science in 2025.
Federal authorities, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation and U.S. Secret Service, are leading the investigation.
Officials said the suspect allegedly approached a security checkpoint and opened fire, injuring a Secret Service officer who was protected by a ballistic vest.
Donald Trump and other officials were escorted from the venue, and the situation remains under active investigation.
Benjamin Harris is a RapidReports front page contributor and editor,proud father of four.
