Washington, May 24 (V7N) – A suspect was killed in a shooting near the White House in the US capital Washington after allegedly opening fire on security officers at a checkpoint, according to the United States Secret Service. CNN reported the incident on Sunday.
The shooting took place shortly before 6:00 pm local time on Saturday near a security checkpoint outside the White House complex.
According to a preliminary investigation cited by a Secret Service spokesperson, the suspect suddenly opened fire on officers stationed at the checkpoint. Secret Service personnel returned fire, seriously injuring the man. He was later taken to a hospital, where doctors declared him dead.
A pedestrian was also shot during the incident. However, authorities have not yet confirmed whether the individual was hit by the suspect’s gunfire or during the exchange of fire with officers. A law enforcement official said the pedestrian remains in critical condition.
No Secret Service personnel were injured in the shooting. Authorities confirmed that US President Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time of the incident and remained safe.
Following the shooting, security was significantly tightened around the White House area. Journalists working nearby were reportedly placed under lockdown for around 40 minutes. Witnesses said multiple rounds of gunfire were heard.
Reporters from US media outlets said Secret Service agents shouted “shots fired” and instructed journalists to immediately take shelter inside the White House briefing room. Armed security officers were later seen patrolling the North Lawn of the White House.
Meanwhile, Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Kash Patel said FBI agents were assisting the Secret Service in the investigation.
Shortly before the incident, White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Vice President JD Vance were seen leaving the White House complex.
The incident comes less than a month after another shooting occurred during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. In that case, accused suspect Cole Thomas Allen pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including attempting to assassinate Trump.
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