Washington attack suspect charged with attempt on Trump

Federal prosecutor for the Columbia District Jeanie Pirro made public the accusations at a news conference on April 27th two days after the attack on the White House Correspondent Association dinner.

She said the suspect, Cole Thomas Allen, is expected to face other charges as the investigations continue.

“They are just three counts involved in the speculation... there will be other charges, while investigations develop”, Pirro said.

However, to have no doubts, it was an attempt at the assassinations of the United States president”, she added.

On April 25th, Allen, 31, from California, opened fire with a firing gun to security personnel, causing panic, while President Trump and the first lady, Melanie Trump, quickly left a nearby hall without getting hurt.

Officials said one security member was shot as Allen tried to pass a checkpoint but suffered no serious injuries after wearing bulletproof vests.

According to prosecutor Pirro, investigators believe it aimed at “shooting as many senior government officials as possible”.

At the same conference, Prosecutor General Todd Blanche's task officer, said authorities have provided a manifesto, believed to have sent it to his family.

According to him, it is clear that the main objective was President Trump, while other motives are being investigated by the FBI and order agencies.

According to documents presented in court, Allen had reserved a room in the hotel where dinner was held on April 6th and had traveled from California to Washington by train.

Radio correspondent Free Europe in Washington, Alex Raufoglu, was present in the ceremony when the shooting occurred.

It was shocking. All were looking for housing opportunities”, Raufoglu said, recalling the first moments.

And, of course, some started hiding right under the table. Journalists immediately started documenting, seeking information. Suddenly the Secret Service appeared and accompanied the president outside”, he added. / REL/