The man accused of opening fire at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner sent messages to family members just minutes before the attack, describing himself as a "Friendly Federal Assassin" and denouncing Trump administration policies.

The writings suggest what investigators are increasingly viewing as a politically motivated act of violence, according to a law enforcement official familiar with the case cited by the Associated Press.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said the early stages of the investigation show the gunman was likely targeting Trump administration officials and possibly the president.

The writings, sent shortly before shots rang out at the Washington Hilton, included multiple references to President Donald Trump without naming him directly and cited grievances tied to various administration actions and recent events, such as U.S. operations targeting drug-smuggling boats in the eastern Pacific, the official said.