‘Modern-day Jesus’: Details emerge about White House shooter

Washington: The gunman who opened fire at a US Secret Service checkpoint near the White House on Saturday night has been identified as Nasire Best, according to a report by the New York Post. Investigators believe the suspect was mentally disturbed and had repeatedly drawn the attention of Secret Service officials for loitering near White House security checkpoints in recent months.

Authorities probing the incident reportedly found that Best believed he was the modern-day incarnation of Jesus Christ, raising suspicions that the shooting may have been driven by severe mental instability. Officials, however, said the exact motive behind the attack remains under investigation.

Best was reportedly from Maryland and used a revolver during the attack, managing to fire only a few shots before officers returned fire, according to Fox News. While investigators have not established a clear motive, Reuters described Best as an “emotionally disturbed” individual. Reports also suggest he was already known to the Secret Service and had allegedly violated a prior court order barring him from approaching the White House area. According to the New York Post and Fox News, Best had previously been detained by Secret Service agents on June 26, 2025, after flagging down officers and issuing threats. He was again detained on July 10, 2025, for entering a restricted zone near the White House.

The shooting unfolded near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, just outside the White House complex, while US President Donald Trump was inside the White House.

According to CBS News and a Secret Service spokesperson, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect approached a security checkpoint, removed a weapon from his bag and opened fire on officers.

The Secret Service officers immediately returned fire, critically injuring the suspect. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

A bystander was also struck during the exchange of gunfire, although officials said it remains unclear whether the person was hit by bullets fired by the suspect or responding officers. The bystander’s condition has not yet been disclosed.

The US Secret Service said in a statement, "Shortly after 6 p.m Saturday, an individual in the area of 17th street and Pennsylvania Avenue pulled a weapon from his bag and began firing."

The agency further stated, "Secret Service Police returned fire, striking the suspect who was transported to an area hospital where he was pronounced deceased. During the shooting, one bystander was also struck by gunfire. No injuries were sustained by officers. The President was in the White House during the incident; no protectees or operations were impacted. This incident remains under investigation, and additional information will be released as it becomes available."

US House Speaker Mike Johnson praised the Secret Service response following the incident.

Meanwhile, Assistant to the President Steven Cheung said President Trump continued working despite the security scare.

In a post on X, Cheung said, "President Trump is working at 8:00 PM. Can't stop, won't stop."

US Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin also commended the officers involved in the response.

"I am closely monitoring the shooting incident near the White House and will update the public as we have more information. Tonight's shooting is a reminder of the dangers our law enforcement officers face every day. I am thankful for the bravery and swift action of the Secret Service officers involved. Thankfully, no officers were harmed," he said.