Shooting Near White House Raises Security Concerns

President Donald Trump stated that the gunman, killed after firing near a White House security checkpoint, had a “possible obsession” with the presidential residence. The Secret Service reported that the incident occurred shortly after 6 p.m. No agents were injured, but one bystander was shot when the suspect “pulled a weapon from his bag and began firing.” CBS News noted that 15 to 30 shots were fired. The suspect, Nasire Best, was known to law enforcement and the Secret Service, having approached the White House several times.

Secret Service Response Praised by Trump

Trump expressed gratitude to the Secret Service and law enforcement for their swift, professional action against the gunman near the White House. He acknowledged the suspect’s violent history and possible obsession with the presidential residence on his Truth Social account.

This incident highlights renewed security threats near the White House, sparking concerns over safety at the heavily guarded site. The shooting took place amidst a busy day as Trump and senior officials engaged in talks over a potential Iran agreement. Trump emphasized the importance of ongoing renovations to the complex for future security.

“This event, one month after the White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting, underscores the necessity for creating the safest space possible in Washington, D.C., for future Presidents. This is essential for our National Security!” Trump posted on Truth Social.

Details of the Gunfire

Journalists at the White House reported hearing gunfire and took shelter in the press briefing room as Secret Service agents responded. The shooting happened near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, outside the presidential complex.

The Secret Service stated the suspect approached a checkpoint after 6 p.m., “removed a weapon from his bag, and began firing at posted officers.” Officers returned fire, hitting the suspect, who was hospitalized and later died. It’s unclear whether the bystander was shot by the suspect or officers. The Secret Service confirmed no personnel injuries. Trump was inside the White House at the time.

FBI Director Kash Patel said agents are assisting and updates will follow as more information becomes available. Yellow police tape marked the evidence area near the White House. Video shared by ABC News correspondent Selina Wang captured the chaos as gunfire erupted. Wang was filming a social media segment and took cover inside the media tent.

The Metropolitan Police Department stated the Secret Service leads the investigation and urged the public to avoid the area as officers secure the scene.

Profile of Nasire Best

The gunman was identified as 21-year-old Nasire Best of Maryland. Agents detained him on June 26, 2025, after he made threats near the White House, NBC News reported. Court records indicate he was arrested in July 2025 after attempting unauthorized access to a White House checkpoint and ignoring officers’ commands. Best claimed he was Jesus Christ and requested arrest. A judge ordered him to stay away from the area, but a bench warrant was issued in August after a missed hearing. CBS News reported Best was sent to a psychiatric unit for mental health issues.

Recent Security Incidents

This shooting is part of a series of recent security scares near the White House. The area is close to a November incident where a gunman attacked two West Virginia National Guard members, killing U.S. Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and critically wounding Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe. It follows an attempted assassination of the president last month during the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner.

Earlier this month, Secret Service officers shot a suspect near the Washington Monument after he fired at law enforcement, injuring a teenage bystander. The shooting coincides with ongoing debates over funding for Trump’s proposed White House ballroom. While Trump claims private funding for the ballroom, Republican lawmakers seek $1 billion in federal money for Secret Service upgrades. These include strengthening the complex and enhancing screening facilities.

Critics argue the proposal shifts costs to taxpayers without clear details, while supporters point to recent threats underscoring the need for improved security at large-scale White House events.

This report includes information from The Associated Press.

Update 5/24/26 3:18 a.m. ET: This article has been updated with additional information.