A suspect has been shot dead by US Secret Service agents after opening fire near a security checkpoint in the streets immediately surrounding the White House on Saturday evening.
A volley of gunfire erupted at approximately 18:00 local time (23:00 GMT), sending journalists and White House staff working on the premises running for cover.
The US Secret Service subsequently released a statement detailing the chronology of the security breach. According to the agency, an individual drew a weapon from a bag in the vicinity of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue and began firing at law enforcement officers. Secret Service police swiftly returned fire, striking the suspect. The individual was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The suspect has been identified as Nasire Best, a 21-year-old man from Maryland who was already known to federal authorities. CBS reported that Mr Best had a documented history of mental health issues and previous encounters with the Secret Service. He was arrested in July 2025 after attempting to breach the White House complex, an incident during which he reportedly claimed to be Jesus Christ and expressed a desire to be arrested. He was subsequently admitted to a psychiatric facility.
While the Secret Service confirmed that no law enforcement personnel were injured in the exchange, an adult civilian bystander was struck by gunfire. The agency has not yet disclosed the individual’s condition, and it remains unclear whether the bystander was hit by Mr Best’s initial rounds or by the return fire from agents.
The gunfire triggered an immediate half-hour lockdown of the White House complex, with reporters forced to barricade themselves inside the press briefing room.
President Donald Trump was in residence at the executive mansion when the shooting unfolded, though officials confirmed he was unhurt and that executive operations were not compromised. Taking to his Truth Social platform later on Saturday evening, President Trump commended the emergency response while noting the suspect’s background.
“Thank you to our great Secret Service and Law Enforcement for the swift and professional action taken this evening against a gunman near the White House, who had a violent history and possible obsession with our Country’s most cherished structure,” the President wrote.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has confirmed it is assisting the Secret Service and local police with the ongoing investigation. The precise motivation behind the attack and the specific model of firearm used by the suspect have not yet been formally disclosed.
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