Suspect who fired shots at White House security checkpoint killed by Secret Service
A man who approached a security checkpoint near the White House and opened fire at officers was shot and killed by Secret Service Saturday night.
Secret Service spokesman Anthony Gugliemi said in a statement that the incident happened shortly after 6 p.m. ET in the area of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue.
A preliminary investigation shows the suspect removed a weapon from his bag and began firing at officers, Gugliemi said.
“Secret Service Police returned fire striking the suspect who was transported to an area hospital, where he was pronounced deceased,” Gugliemi said.
A bystander was also struck by gunfire. The Secret Service said it is unclear whether the bystander was hit by the suspect or during the subsequent exchange in a statement to NBC News. In an email to Straight Arrow, the Secret Service said the bystander is in serious but stable condition.
No members of the Secret Service were injured. President Donald Trump was at the White House when the shooting happened, but was not affected, the Secret Service said to NBC.
“Thank you to our great Secret Service and Law Enforcement for the swift and professional action taken this evening against a gunman near the White House,” Trump said on Truth Social Saturday evening.
ABC News senior White House correspondent Selina Wang wrote on X that she was in the middle of taping a video for social media from the White House Lawn when she heard what sounded like “dozens of gunshots.”
“We were told to sprint to the press briefing room where we are holding now,” Wang said.
CNN said its reporters heard the same.
“Grateful for the Secret Service and the agents’ decisive actions to protect President Trump and everyone at and around the White House this evening,” Senate Majority Leader John Thune said on X. “[My wife] Kimberley and I are praying for the safety and security of those who were in harm’s way.”
This story is developing. Refresh for updates.
Ella Rae Greene, Editor In Chief
