A major security incident unfolded near the White House after an armed man opened fire at a United States Secret Service security checkpoint, triggering a rapid law enforcement response, a temporary lockdown of the White House complex, and a large federal investigation.
The shooting occurred on the evening of May 23, 2026, near the intersection of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, just outside the White House security perimeter. Secret Service officers quickly returned fire, fatally wounding the suspect before securing the area. The incident prompted temporary security restrictions around one of the nation’s most heavily protected government facilities.
Gunman Opens Fire Near White House
According to the U.S. Secret Service, the suspect approached a security checkpoint carrying a firearm inside a bag. Shortly after 6 p.m. local time, he removed the weapon and began firing toward Secret Service personnel stationed outside the White House complex.
Agents immediately returned fire, striking the suspect. Emergency medical personnel transported him to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries. No Secret Service agents were injured during the exchange. A bystander was also struck by gunfire and hospitalized with injuries. Investigators have not yet determined whether the bystander was hit by bullets fired by the suspect or during the officers’ response.
White House Temporarily Locked Down
Following the shooting, the White House was briefly placed under lockdown while Secret Service agents secured the surrounding area and confirmed there was no additional threat.
Officials stated that President Donald Trump, who was inside the White House at the time, was never in immediate danger and was not injured. Members of the White House press corps were instructed to shelter in place while security teams completed protective sweeps of the area. The lockdown was lifted after authorities determined the threat had been neutralized.
Suspect Identified
Law enforcement officials identified the gunman as 21-year-old Nasire Best of Maryland.
Court records show Best had previously been arrested in 2025 after attempting to enter a restricted White House checkpoint without authorization. During that earlier incident, authorities said he claimed to be Jesus Christ and expressed a desire to be arrested. Following the arrest, a court ordered him to stay away from the White House complex, although records indicate he later failed to comply with portions of those court orders.
Investigators are also examining the suspect’s documented history of mental health concerns as part of the ongoing investigation.
Federal Investigation Continues
The investigation is being led jointly by the U.S. Secret Service, the FBI, and the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, D.C.
Investigators continue to:
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Review surveillance footage from the White House security perimeter.
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Analyze forensic and ballistic evidence.
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Interview witnesses present during the shooting.
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Examine the suspect’s background and previous interactions with federal authorities.
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Determine whether any additional factors contributed to the attack.
Authorities have not announced any evidence indicating the suspect acted with accomplices.
Security Response Praised
Federal officials praised the swift actions of Secret Service officers, noting that their rapid response prevented what could have become a far more dangerous incident.
The shooting has also renewed discussions about security surrounding the White House and the challenges posed by individuals with prior documented contacts with law enforcement and mental health histories. The incident marked another significant security event near the executive residence during 2026.
Investigation Remains Active
Although the immediate threat has ended, investigators continue processing evidence while working to establish the suspect’s exact motive.
Authorities are asking anyone who witnessed the incident or possesses photographs, videos, or other relevant information to cooperate with investigators. Additional details are expected to be released as the federal investigation progresses.
For now, officials emphasize that the White House complex has returned to normal operations, while security remains heightened as investigators continue their work
