WASHINGTON: A shooting near the White House on Saturday evening triggered a major security response, with police, Secret Service agents and federal authorities swarming the area while President Donald Trump was inside the presidential complex, officials said.
According to a US law enforcement official cited by Reuters, a man approached a security checkpoint near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue and opened fire on officers.
The suspect was shot by Secret Service personnel and taken to George Washington Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries, according to US media reports.
Authorities said the suspect had previously been identified as an emotionally disturbed individual and had been subject to a “stay-away order”.
Security forces immediately cordoned off access routes around downtown Washington, while National Guard troops blocked several entry points near the White House. Journalists and bystanders were ordered to evacuate the area.
Fox News host Bret Baier, citing a senior administration official, reported that the gunman approached the west side of the White House and fired three shots before Secret Service agents returned fire.
The report said a bystander was also wounded during the exchange, although the gunman did not breach the White House security perimeter.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation said it was assisting the investigation.
FBI Director Kash Patel wrote on X that federal agents were supporting the Secret Service response to the shooting near the White House grounds.
Witnesses described scenes of panic following the gunfire.
Canadian tourist Reid Adrian said he heard what sounded like “20 to 25” shots before people began running from the area.
ABC News correspondent Selina Wang said she heard “dozens of gunshots” while filming nearby before taking cover.
Reporters on the North Lawn were instructed to shelter inside the White House press briefing room as security personnel secured the area.
A Secret Service spokesperson said authorities were continuing to gather information as investigations remained underway.
Saturday’s incident comes amid heightened security concerns surrounding Trump, who has survived multiple alleged assassination attempts in recent years.
In July 2024, Trump was wounded in the ear during a campaign rally shooting in Butler, where one audience member was killed.
Another armed suspect was later arrested near Trump’s golf course in West Palm Beach.
Following the latest incident, House Republicans posted on X: “Thank God President Trump is safe,” while praising the Secret Service response and condemning political violence.