US President Donald Trump praised Secret Service agents after a gunman was shot dead near the White House and described the suspect as having a violent history.
Washington DC: US President Donald Trump praised the US Secret Service for its “swift and professional action” after a gunman was shot dead near the White House, describing the suspect as someone with a “violent history” and a possible obsession with the presidential residence.
Gunfire erupts near White House checkpoint
Also Read
The shooting took place near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, close to a White House security checkpoint in Washington, DC.
According to the US Secret Service, the suspect approached the checkpoint carrying a bag before allegedly pulling out a firearm and opening fire toward officers stationed in the area.
Secret Service personnel immediately returned fire, killing the suspect at the scene.
The area surrounding the White House was briefly placed under lockdown following the incident.
Trump praises Secret Service response
In a statement posted on social media, Trump commended the Secret Service and law enforcement agencies for quickly responding to the threat. “The gunman is dead after an exchange of gunfire with Secret Service Agents near the White House gates,” Trump wrote.
He also linked the incident to broader national security concerns and renewed calls for stronger protective infrastructure around the White House.
Trump stated that the incident highlighted the importance of maintaining what he described as one of the safest and most secure areas in Washington, DC.
Suspect reportedly identified as 21-year-old
Authorities have not officially confirmed the identity of the suspect, but several US media outlets identified him as 21-year-old Nasire Best. Reports claimed that the suspect had previous interactions with the Secret Service and may have struggled with mental health issues.
Trump described the suspect as someone with a “violent history” and an apparent “obsession” with the White House. Officials also confirmed that a bystander was injured during the exchange of gunfire.
Authorities have not yet clarified whether the injury was caused by bullets fired by the suspect or by return fire from officers.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Secret Service have launched a joint investigation into the incident.
Investigators are currently examining the suspect’s background, possible motives and the sequence of events leading up to the shooting.
(With AFP inputs)
Published: 24 May 2026, 10:35 am IST
Related Topics
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Disclaimer: Kindly avoid objectionable, derogatory, unlawful and lewd comments, while responding to reports. Such comments are punishable under cyber laws. Please keep away from personal attacks. The opinions expressed here are the personal opinions of readers and not that of Mathrubhumi.