White House Shooting: Gunman Killed at Security Checkpoint

Shots Fired Near the White House: What Happened

On the evening of May 23, 2026, a gunman opened fire at a Secret Service security checkpoint near the White House in Washington, D.C., sparking an immediate lockdown of the presidential complex. The suspect, identified as 21-year-old Nasire Best, was fatally shot by Secret Service officers after he pulled a revolver from his bag and fired an estimated 15 to 30 rounds at the checkpoint near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW. A bystander was also struck in the exchange and remains in serious condition. President Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time but was unharmed and never in direct danger, according to officials.

The incident occurred around 6 p.m. ET, just as many journalists were preparing for evening broadcasts. Reporters on the North Lawn were rushed into the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room as Secret Service agents shouted, 'Get down!' and 'Take cover!' The lockdown lasted approximately one hour, during which no one could enter or leave the White House grounds. The White House security perimeter was secured by the Secret Service Uniformed Division and local law enforcement.

Who Was the Suspect?

Nasire Best, a 21-year-old from Maryland, had been living in Washington, D.C., for about 18 months. According to law enforcement sources, Best had a documented history of mental health issues and was known to federal authorities. In July 2025, he was arrested after attempting to enter a White House checkpoint without authorization. During that incident, he reportedly claimed to be Jesus Christ and was subsequently sent to a psychiatric ward. He had also been detained in June 2025 for flagging down Secret Service agents and making threats.

Authorities have not yet disclosed a motive for the attack. The FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Metropolitan Police Department are jointly investigating whether the shooting was politically motivated or if Best had any accomplices. No organization has claimed responsibility, and officials have not linked the attack to any known terrorist group.

Third Gunfire Incident Near President Trump in a Month

This shooting marks the third gunfire incident near President Trump in the past month. On April 25, 2026, a gunman opened fire near the White House Correspondents' Dinner at the Washington Hilton, where Trump and senior administration officials were present. That suspect, 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen, was arrested and later charged with attempting to assassinate the president. Earlier in May, a shooting occurred near the Washington Monument, though no injuries were reported.

The frequency of these incidents has raised serious questions about security protocols for the president and public safety near sensitive government sites. The Secret Service has faced increased scrutiny over its ability to protect the president and the White House complex. In a statement released after the lockdown was lifted, President Trump thanked the Secret Service for their 'swift and professional response' and said, 'Our law enforcement officers are the best in the world. They acted bravely and prevented a tragedy.'

Bystander Wounded

A bystander, whose identity has not been released, was struck by gunfire during the exchange. It remains unclear whether the injuries were caused by the suspect's bullets or by the officers' return fire. The victim was taken to a local hospital and is reported to be in serious condition. No Secret Service officers were injured in the incident.

Immediate Aftermath and Lockdown

At the first sound of gunfire, the White House went into lockdown. Secret Service agents secured the perimeter and ushered staff and journalists into secure areas. The emergency response to White House threats followed established protocols, with tactical teams sweeping the area for additional threats. The lockdown was lifted just before 7 p.m. ET, and normal operations resumed shortly thereafter.

The shooting once again highlights the vulnerability of the White House's outer perimeter. Despite decades of security enhancements, including vehicle barriers, armed checkpoints, and surveillance systems, determined individuals have repeatedly managed to approach the complex with weapons. The Secret Service has announced it will review its procedures in light of this latest incident.

FAQ: White House Shooting Incident

What happened at the White House on May 23, 2026?

A 21-year-old man, Nasire Best, opened fire at a Secret Service security checkpoint near the White House at 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW. Secret Service officers returned fire, fatally wounding him. A bystander was also injured. The White House was placed on lockdown for about an hour.

Was President Trump in danger?

President Trump was inside the White House at the time of the shooting. Officials confirmed that he was not in direct danger and that the suspect never breached the inner perimeter of the White House grounds.

Who was the shooter?

The shooter was identified as Nasire Best, a 21-year-old from Maryland. He had a history of mental health issues and prior encounters with the Secret Service, including an arrest in July 2025 for attempting to enter a White House checkpoint without authorization.

How many shots were fired?

Witnesses and law enforcement sources indicate that between 15 and 30 shots were fired during the exchange. The suspect used a revolver.

What is being investigated?

The FBI, ATF, and Metropolitan Police are investigating the incident. Authorities are looking into a possible motive, whether the attack was politically motivated, and whether Best acted alone.

Sources

This article is based on reporting from the Associated Press, NPR, CBS News, CNN, and UPI. Additional details were provided by the U.S. Secret Service and the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, D.C.