Newly released surveillance footage and material from the United States Department of Justice shows the moments before a security incident at the White House Correspondents' Dinner held at the Washington Hilton in Washington, D.C..
Authorities say the suspect, identified as Cole Allen, was seen moving through hotel areas and allegedly observing the venue ahead of the incident.
Investigators believe he may have carried out reconnaissance a day earlier, raising concerns about how he accessed and moved within the location prior to the event.
According to officials, the footage shows him approaching a security checkpoint outside the event area before being stopped by security personnel.
Law enforcement agencies say the case is being treated with serious concern due to the nature of the alleged actions and the high-profile attendance at the event, including Donald Trump and other senior officials.
The Department of Justice has described the incident as an attempted assassination, and investigators say additional charges could be filed as the case develops.
Security procedures at major political events in Washington are now under review following the incident.
Officials are also examining how the suspect was able to gather information about the venue beforehand.
As the investigation continues, authorities say they are focused on closing security gaps and preventing similar threats in the future.
