A gunman was shot dead after approaching a White House security checkpoint and opening fire on law enforcement officers, according to federal officials.
The White House, where Donald Trump was present at the time, was briefly placed on lockdown on Saturday as sustained gunfire was heard in the area, forcing journalists nearby to run for safety.
During the exchange, a bystander was also struck by gunfire. The Secret Service clarified that it is still unclear whether the individual was hit by the suspect’s initial shots or during the return fire.
“It remains unclear whether the bystander was struck by the suspect’s initial gunfire or during the subsequent exchange of gunfire,” the Secret Service said.
Officials confirmed that no Secret Service personnel were injured, and the President was not affected by the incident.
Following the shooting, Trump commended the response of security operatives, praising their quick intervention in a post on social media. He also referenced recent security incidents in Washington, D.C., stressing the need for enhanced protection for future presidents.
The suspect has not yet been officially identified, but US media reports suggest he had a history of mental health issues and had previously been barred from approaching White House security areas after an earlier arrest and a “Stay Away Order”.
According to the Secret Service, the incident occurred shortly after 6 pm local time when a man approached a checkpoint near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, pulled out a pistol, and fired at officers. Agents returned fire, striking him, and he was later taken to the hospital where he died.
White House correspondent Selina Wang of ABC News described the moment gunfire erupted while she was reporting on US-Iran negotiations, saying journalists were forced to take cover.
“We were told to sprint to the press briefing room, where we are holding now,” she said.
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed federal involvement, stating: “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.”
Reports from journalists at the scene suggested between 20 and 30 shots were fired before the lockdown was lifted.
The incident comes amid heightened security concerns following previous shootings near the White House perimeter in recent weeks, including an earlier attack involving a Secret Service officer and a separate alleged assassination attempt reported last month.
