WASHINGTON, D.C. — Nasire Best, a 21-year-old Maryland man identified by federal authorities as the suspect involved in Saturday evening’s shooting near the White House, died after being shot by U.S. Secret Service agents during an exchange of gunfire outside a security checkpoint near the presidential complex. The incident triggered a temporary lockdown around the White House and prompted a major federal law enforcement response throughout downtown Washington.
According to the U.S. Secret Service, the shooting occurred shortly after 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 23, 2026, near the intersection of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW. Investigators stated that Best allegedly approached a checkpoint carrying a bag before retrieving a firearm and opening fire toward Secret Service personnel stationed near the White House grounds. Agents immediately returned fire, striking the suspect during the confrontation.
Authorities confirmed that Nasire Best was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries. A bystander was also injured during the incident, though officials have not publicly clarified whether the injury resulted from gunfire fired by the suspect or by responding agents. No Secret Service officers were reported injured.
Federal investigators later revealed that Best was previously known to law enforcement and the Secret Service due to earlier incidents involving the White House area. Reports indicate he had previously violated restricted access rules and had allegedly displayed erratic behavior during past encounters with authorities. Multiple reports stated that he had previously claimed to be “Jesus Christ” and had been subject to a court-issued stay-away order connected to earlier White House security incidents.
Witnesses near the White House described hearing rapid bursts of gunfire followed by screams and heavy police movement throughout the area. Journalists covering activities near the White House reported being rushed indoors by Secret Service agents as heavily armed officers secured surrounding streets and checkpoints.
President Donald Trump was reportedly inside the White House at the time of the shooting but was not harmed. Following the incident, portions of the White House complex and surrounding streets were briefly locked down while federal authorities secured the scene and began processing evidence.
The FBI and Secret Service continue leading the investigation into the incident, including reviewing surveillance footage, witness statements, and the suspect’s background. Officials have not yet publicly disclosed a definitive motive behind the shooting.
