[UPDATED — 8:36 p.m. ET]
The man who opened fire near a Secret Service security checkpoint outside the White House was killed Saturday night after agents returned fire.
The shooting triggered a rapid security response just steps from the White House complex, with Secret Service agents drawing their weapons and ordering nearby journalists and pedestrians to take cover as gunfire echoed across the area.
The suspect fired at least three shots toward the checkpoint before Secret Service agents returned fire almost immediately. The man was pronounced dead roughly two hours later. Authorities have not yet publicly identified the suspect.
A bystander was also struck during the incident. Officials have not yet determined whether the individual was shot by the gunman or hit during the exchange of gunfire that followed.
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A burst of gunfire near the White House sent Secret Service agents scrambling Saturday night, with reporters ordered to take cover as armed officers rushed toward the threat.
According to preliminary reports, a male suspect fired at least three shots near the White House perimeter before Secret Service personnel returned fire almost immediately. The suspect was critically wounded during the exchange and taken into custody before breaching any secure area.
President Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time and was not harmed. Officials also said no Secret Service agents or other law enforcement officers were injured during the incident.
One civilian bystander was reportedly hurt in the chaos, though details about the extent of the injuries have not yet been released.
Fast-moving scene outside White House
The shooting unfolded quickly in an area that is typically packed with security, tourists and media. Journalists near the scene described hearing multiple gunshots before agents drew weapons and shouted commands for people to get down.
Authorities have not publicly identified the suspect or released a motive.
Security concerns return to forefront
The incident comes only weeks after another alarming security scare tied to the White House.
In April 2026, an assassination attempt disrupted events surrounding the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, renewing concerns about the growing number of threats targeting high-profile political gatherings in Washington.
Saturday’s shooting is likely to intensify scrutiny of security operations around the White House complex, which already ranks among the most heavily protected areas in the country.
Despite the gunfire, officials emphasized that the White House security perimeter held and that there was never a breach of the grounds themselves.
This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.
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