WASHINGTON, D.C. — A major security incident unfolded near the White House on Saturday evening, May 23, 2026, after a gunman opened fire near a Secret Service checkpoint, leading to a chaotic exchange of gunfire that left two people shot and triggered a temporary lockdown of the White House complex. Federal authorities, including the U.S. Secret Service and FBI, continue investigating the shooting as new details emerge regarding the suspect and the sequence of events.
According to the U.S. Secret Service, the incident occurred shortly after 6:00 p.m. near the intersection of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, just outside the White House grounds. Witnesses and members of the White House press corps reported hearing between 20 and 30 gunshots erupt near the Eisenhower Executive Office Building side of the complex, prompting agents to immediately rush journalists and staff members indoors for safety.
Authorities stated that the suspect approached a Secret Service security checkpoint carrying a bag before allegedly pulling out a firearm and opening fire toward officers stationed in the area. Secret Service personnel returned fire, striking the suspect during the exchange. The suspect was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries, according to federal officials.
A second person, identified only as a bystander, was also struck during the gunfire incident. Officials said it remains unclear whether the bystander was hit by shots fired by the suspect or during the return fire from Secret Service officers. The bystander’s exact condition had not been publicly disclosed as of late Saturday night.
Federal investigators later identified the suspect as 21-year-old Nasire Best, according to multiple reports. Law enforcement sources indicated Best reportedly had a history of mental health concerns and had previously been issued a “stay-away order” connected to prior incidents near White House security areas.
President Donald Trump was reportedly at the White House earlier in the day, though officials stated he was not harmed during the incident. No Secret Service personnel were injured during the exchange of gunfire.
The shooting caused immediate panic among journalists and visitors near the White House. Reporters described hearing rapid bursts of gunfire before Secret Service agents ordered everyone to run into the White House briefing room and shelter in place while heavily armed officers secured the perimeter.
Saturday’s shooting marks the latest in a series of recent high-profile security incidents involving areas connected to the White House and federal officials. The event occurred less than a month after the April 2026 White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting incident, which also prompted major security concerns in Washington, D.C.
As of Sunday morning, May 24, 2026, the FBI and Secret Service confirmed the investigation remains active and ongoing. Authorities continue reviewing surveillance footage, witness statements, and evidence collected from the scene as they work to establish the suspect’s motive and full timeline leading up to the shooting.
