Marker cones over potential evidence behind yellow tape cordoning an area, after a shooting incident near the White House, in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 23, 2026. REUTERS/Kylie Cooper
WASHINGTON, D.C., May 24 (ANI) — A suspect involved in a shooting near the White House was shot after opening fire at a U.S. Secret Service checkpoint on Saturday night, according to CBS News and a Secret Service spokesperson. The suspect later died at a hospital.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect approached the checkpoint, pulled a weapon from a bag, and began firing at officers.
Secret Service officers returned fire, striking the suspect. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead, according to CBS News. Authorities have not yet released the suspect’s identity.
A bystander was also struck by gunfire, although it remains unclear whether the individual was hit by shots fired by the suspect or by officers. The bystander’s condition was not immediately available.
In a statement, the U.S. Secret Service said, “Shortly after 6 p.m. Saturday, an individual in the area of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue pulled a weapon from his bag and began firing.”
The statement added, “Secret Service Police returned fire, striking the suspect, who was transported to an area hospital where he was pronounced deceased. During the shooting, one bystander was also struck by gunfire. No injuries were sustained by officers. The President was in the White House during the incident; however, no protectees or operations were impacted. This incident remains under investigation and additional information will be released as it becomes available.”
U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson praised the Secret Service officers for their swift response.
“We are grateful for our brave Secret Service agents who took quick, decisive action to protect President Trump, and our prayers are with the victims of tonight’s senseless shooting for a speedy recovery,” Johnson wrote on X.
Assistant to the President Steven Cheung said President Donald Trump was working at the time of the incident and continued with his schedule afterward.
In a post on X, Cheung wrote, “President Trump is working at 8:00 PM. Can’t stop, won’t stop.”
U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin also commended the Secret Service officers and said he was closely monitoring the situation.
“Tonight’s shooting is a reminder of the dangers our law enforcement officers face every day. I am thankful for the bravery and swift action of the Secret Service officers involved. Thankfully, no officers were harmed,” Mullin wrote on X. (ANI)
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