Gunman shot dead after opening fire near White House security checkpoint

World May 24, 2026

A gunman was shot dead by U.S. Secret Service officers after opening fire near a White House security checkpoint in Washington, D.C. on Saturday evening. The suspect, identified in U.S. media as 21-year-old Nasire Best, reportedly had prior contact with authorities and a history of mental health issues.

The incident occurred near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, prompting a rapid security response that left the attacker dead and a bystander injured. No Secret Service personnel were harmed, and President Donald Trump, who was inside the White House at the time, was unharmed.

Authorities say the suspect drew a firearm and began shooting before officers returned fire. The White House was briefly locked down as journalists and staff were rushed to safety.

Trump praised the Secret Service for their swift response, while investigations into the motive behind the attack are ongoing.

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