In a dramatic turn of events near the White House on Saturday evening, Secret Service officers shot and killed an individual who reportedly approached a security checkpoint and opened fire. The incident unfolded around 6 p.m. ET, sending shockwaves through the capital and prompting a swift law enforcement response.
Gunfire Erupts at Checkpoint
According to a White House spokesperson, the suspect began firing at officers near the checkpoint. Agents returned fire, striking the assailant, who was later pronounced dead at a local hospital. The spokesperson confirmed that a bystander was also hit during the exchange, though it remains unclear whether the bullet came from the suspect or the officers. The bystander is currently in critical condition.
President Donald Trump was inside the White House residence at the time of the shooting but was not in danger. A White House official confirmed that the president was briefed by the Secret Service shortly after the incident. No Secret Service agents or personnel were injured.
Dozens of Shots Heard
Witnesses reported hearing dozens of gunshots during the confrontation. ABC's Selina Wang, who was on the North Lawn recording a video, described the chaos on X. "We heard the shots. It sounded like dozens of gunshots. We were told to sprint to the press briefing room where we are holding now," she wrote, posting a 16-second clip of the gunfire.
FBI Director Kash Patel announced on X that federal agents are assisting the Secret Service at the scene. "FBI is on the scene and supporting Secret Service responding to shots fired near White House grounds – we will update the public as we’re able," Patel wrote.
Unanswered Questions
It is still unclear how many shots were fired by the suspect versus the officers. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the suspect's motive and whether the bystander was struck by the initial gunfire or the return fire. The incident echoes recent security concerns at high-profile locations, much like the tragic loss of a college basketball star that shook a community earlier this year.
The White House grounds were placed on lockdown as officers swept the area. The press corps, which was preparing for a briefing, was hurried into the briefing room for safety. The lockdown has since been lifted, but the investigation continues.
This is a developing story. More details are expected as the investigation unfolds.
