Neighbor says WHCD shooting suspect Cole Tomas Allen ‘may be on the spectrum’

WASHINGTON, DC: A neighbor of suspected White House Correspondents' Dinner shooter Cole Tomas Allen has suggested he may be “on the spectrum,” as new details continue to emerge following the chaotic shooting that led to the evacuation of President Donald Trump and top officials.

The remark came after reporters visited Allen’s California residence, where a brief exchange with someone inside the home and comments from a neighbor offered a glimpse into how the suspect was perceived locally.

Cole Tomas Allen's neighbor’s remark raises questions

The New York Post reported that when reporters knocked on Allen’s door in Torrance, California, a voice inside responded, “Not now.”

Neighbor Jeff Smith, who said he had met Allen only once, shared his impression of the 31-year-old teacher.

“The one interaction. I had was like, maybe he could be on the spectrum,” Smith said.

Allen was identified as the suspect who allegedly opened fire near a security screening area at the Washington Hilton during the high-profile dinner, prompting panic among attendees and a swift security response.

Suspect was a guest at Washington Hilton 

According to DC police chief Jeffrey Carroll, Allen was believed to be staying at the hotel where the event was held.

“So, preliminary information, we do believe he was a guest here at the hotel," Carroll told reporters at a news conference. “We have a secure room here in the hotel, and again, we'll go through the appropriate procedures to determine what was inside there.”

Carroll added that authorities believe Allen acted alone and that his hotel room had been secured as part of the investigation.

Charges announced

US Attorney for DC Jeanine Pirro confirmed that the suspect faces multiple federal charges following the incident.

“The defendant will be arraigned on Monday in federal district court. Make no mistake, there will be many more charges based upon the information that we are learning,” Pirro said.

The suspect has been charged with using a firearm during a crime of violence and assault on a federal officer using a dangerous weapon, according to officials.

The shooting occurred shortly after 8.30 pm near the event’s main security area, sending guests scrambling for cover inside the venue. Trump, first lady Melania Trump, and several cabinet members were quickly evacuated as law enforcement detained the suspect at the scene.

Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing as they examine evidence and possible motives behind the attack.