Armed Suspect Shot Dead Near White House Security Checkpoint: Secret Service

A tense security scare unfolded near the White House on Saturday evening.

After an armed individual reportedly approached a security checkpoint and opened fire at officers, according to the US Secret Service. The suspect was later shot by officers and died after being taken to a hospital.

In an official statement, the Secret Service said the incident took place shortly after 6 p.m. local time near the White House security perimeter. Preliminary findings suggest the suspect approached the checkpoint, pulled a weapon from a bag and began firing toward officers stationed at the location.

Secret Service personnel immediately returned fire, striking the suspect during the exchange.

Bystander Also Injured

Authorities confirmed that one bystander was also struck during the shooting, although investigators are still trying to determine whether the injury was caused by bullets fired by the suspect or by responding officers.

The Secret Service stated that none of its personnel were injured during the incident.

US President Donald Trump was reportedly inside the White House complex at the time but was not affected by the shooting, officials said.

White House Reporters Heard Gunfire

Journalists stationed at the White House reported hearing multiple gunshots shortly after the incident began. Members of the press corps were instructed to immediately seek shelter inside the briefing room as security teams responded to the situation.

Several videos and eyewitness accounts quickly surfaced online following the shooting. ABC News correspondent Selina Wang shared footage on social media showing the moment loud gunfire erupted while she was recording a report near the White House media area.

The dramatic clip rapidly spread online and drew millions of views within hours.

Federal Agencies Respond

The Secret Service later confirmed on social media that officers were responding to reports of shots fired near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, an area located close to the White House grounds.

Kash Patel also stated that federal law enforcement agencies were coordinating their response and promised updates as more information became available.

The Metropolitan Police Department advised the public to avoid the area while investigators secured the scene.

Heightened Security Concerns

The latest shooting comes amid heightened security concerns around the White House following several recent violent incidents in Washington.

Just last month, authorities said they had foiled an alleged assassination attempt targeting President Trump during the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner.

Another shooting involving Secret Service personnel had also occurred earlier this month near the Washington Monument, not far from the White House complex.

Investigators are continuing to examine Saturday’s shooting, including the suspect’s identity and possible motive.