Gunfire Near White House After Armed Suspect Exchange With Secret Service
A suspected armed individual was shot and injured after exchanging gunfire with U.S. Secret Service officers near the White House, according to U.S. security officials.
The incident occurred on Monday near the White House complex in Washington, D.C., prompting a temporary lockdown of the area. Entry and exit to the premises were briefly restricted as security forces responded to the situation.
According to the Secret Service, officers identified a suspicious individual during routine patrols outside the secured perimeter. The man was believed to be carrying a firearm. When officers approached, the suspect allegedly attempted to flee and opened fire, prompting return fire from agents, who then shot and injured him.
The suspect was taken to a hospital for treatment. A teenage bystander was also injured during the incident, though officials said the injury was not life-threatening.
Secret Service Deputy Director Matthew Quinn stated that officers had reasonable suspicion the individual was armed prior to the confrontation. He also confirmed that a weapon was recovered from the suspect, though further details were not immediately disclosed.
Authorities noted that the motorcade of U.S. Vice President JD Vance had passed through the area shortly before the shooting. However, officials said there was no indication that the suspect was targeting the vice president.
The Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, D.C. is leading an investigation into the incident. Officials said they are still working to determine the suspect’s motive, including whether the White House or political figures were intended targets.
Security in the U.S. capital has remained heightened in recent weeks following previous incidents and increased law enforcement activity around key government sites.
