A dramatic security scare at a high profile Washington dinner has taken a troubling turn, with investigators now examining claims that a Secret Service agent may have been struck by 'friendly fire' during the chaos. The incident unfolded while Donald Trump and Melania Trump were attending a packed event, sending shockwaves through a room filled with senior officials and journalists.
The incident began when 31-year-old suspectCole Tomas Allenallegedly sprinted through a security checkpoint inside a Washington hotel hosting a major political dinner. According to officials, he was carrying a shotgun and moved at speed past magnetometers before a loud gunshot was heard.
Authorities say Allen had travelled from California and booked a room in the same hotel, later using an unguarded stairwell to reach the secured area. He was reportedly armed with multiple weapons, including a shotgun, a pistol, and several knives.
As panic spread, guests inside the ballroom were told to take cover. Some reported hearing gunfire and even smelling gunpowder, while others closer to the front only realised something was wrong when security began moving rapidly.
Secret Service agents quickly removed Trump and other officials from the area, while guests ducked under tables in a scene described as chaotic but controlled.
Initial reports suggested the suspect discharged his weapon as he ran through the checkpoint. However, newer accounts have raised the possibility that the injury may have come from return fire by another officer.
The injured agent, identified in reports as Officer V.G., was protected by aballistic vest, which likely prevented more serious harm. He reportedly fired multiple shots at the suspect after being hit.
Officials have confirmed that ballistics testing is ongoing to determine whether the wound was caused by the suspect's shotgun or by a colleague's weapon during the rapid response.
Thepossibilityof 'friendly fire' has not been officially confirmed, but sources familiar with the probe say it remains a key line of inquiry.
THE ENTIRE STORY MAKES NO SENSE.https://t.co/vrX3yTPhkI
Source: International Business Times UK
