A man suspected of opening fire near the White House on Saturday evening was shot and killed by United States Secret Service officers following a brief exchange of gunfire, authorities have confirmed.
The incident occurred shortly before 6:00 p.m. local time near the intersection of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, close to the Eisenhower Executive Office Building adjacent to the White House complex.
According to officials, the suspect allegedly pulled a firearm from a bag and began shooting near a security checkpoint. Secret Service officers stationed nearby immediately responded, returning fire and striking the suspect.
The man was transported to a nearby hospital where he was later pronounced dead. Authorities said one bystander sustained injuries during the incident, while no law enforcement officers were harmed.
US President Donald Trump, who was reportedly inside the White House at the time of the shooting, praised the Secret Service for their rapid response.
“Thank you to our great Secret Service and Law Enforcement for the swift and professional action taken this evening against a gunman near the White House,” Trump wrote on social media.
US media reports identified the suspect as 21-year-old Nasire Best, who was allegedly known to law enforcement and had a documented history of mental health challenges. Sources cited by CBS News indicated the suspect had previously attempted to gain access to the White House in 2025 and had spent time in a psychiatric facility following his arrest.
The shooting triggered a temporary lockdown around the White House complex, with journalists and staff rushed into secure areas after gunshots were heard across the North Lawn.
Witnesses described scenes of confusion as Secret Service agents ordered people to seek cover while emergency responders arrived at the scene.
The investigation remains ongoing, and several roads surrounding the White House were expected to remain closed overnight as federal authorities processed the crime scene.
Political leaders, including Senate Majority Leader John Thune and House Speaker Mike Johnson, commended the Secret Service for what they described as decisive action in protecting the White House and the public.
