Washington Shooting Suspect Called Himself “Friendly Federal Assassin”

US President Donald Trump said the man suspected of attempting to attack government officials during Saturday’s White House Correspondents’ Association dinner had written an anti-Christian manifesto and was “full of hate”.

The suspect, identified by authorities as Cole Thomas Allen of California, was arrested at the scene in Washington. Trump described him as a “sick man” and said his family had previously raised concerns about his behaviour.

Investigators said Allen had circulated a manifesto shortly before the attack in which he described himself as a “friendly federal assassin”. The document included criticism of Christianity and listed government officials as targets.

Authorities said the suspect had also studied security arrangements at the Washington Hilton Hotel, where the event was held, and considered them inadequate.

Allen travelled to Washington by train from California via Chicago. Investigators believe the intended targets included the president and other senior administration officials. The attacker was stopped before entering the main hall.

(reuters, est)