A Washington man was shot and killed by Secret Service officers after allegedly opening fire at a White House checkpoint Saturday evening, authorities said. A bystander was also struck during the incident, though it is not yet clear how, the Secret Service confirmed.
Shooting at White House Checkpoint
The incident occurred around 6 p.m. near the intersection of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW. According to the Secret Service, the man approached the checkpoint, removed a weapon from a bag, and began firing at officers stationed there. Secret Service police returned fire, striking the suspect. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died.
Regarding the bystander who was hit, the Secret Service said, “It remains unclear whether the bystander was struck by the suspect’s initial gunfire or during the subsequent exchange of gunfire.” No Secret Service officers were injured in the incident, which remains under investigation.
About the Suspect
Officials identified the alleged suspect as a 21-year-old man who was previously known to the Secret Service, multiple sources told ABC News. Court records indicate he had a stay-away order from the White House issued on July 11, 2025.
He had been arrested the day before the shooting after attempting to enter the White House and pass a security checkpoint. During that incident, he reportedly told officers he was “Jesus Christ” and claimed he wanted to get arrested. In a separate event on June 26, he had been involuntarily committed, according to court records.
White House Response and Immediate Chaos
At the time of the shooting, former President Donald Trump was reportedly in the Oval Office, working with aides including Steven Cheung, Natalie Harp, and Margo Martin.
Reporters on site were quickly instructed to take cover. ABC News reporter Selina Wang, who was filming a social media segment, recalled ducking with her crew when the shots rang out. Other reporters were directed to sprint to the White House Press Briefing Room for safety.
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed via X that the agency was on the scene assisting the Secret Service. “We will update the public as we’re able,” Patel said.
Background on the Suspect’s Behaviour
Court records and affidavits reveal a pattern of concerning behaviour leading up to the shooting. Friends and authorities noted that the suspect had previous interactions with law enforcement and the Secret Service, including the stay-away order and prior arrests. Officials said he had been involved in a prior incident at the White House where he expressed delusional statements about being “Jesus Christ” and wanting to be arrested.
The circumstances of the suspect’s approach to the checkpoint suggest he intentionally targeted the officers, though the Secret Service has not released a motive.
Bystander Injured
A bystander was also struck by gunfire during the incident. Authorities have not confirmed the nature or extent of the injuries or whether the injuries were caused by the suspect or during the officers’ response. The identity and condition of the bystander remain unreported.
Security Measures at the White House
The shooting underscores the ongoing security risks faced at the White House. Officials confirmed that no Secret Service officers were injured during the exchange. The Secret Service continues to investigate how the suspect approached the checkpoint, how he obtained the firearm, and whether other security measures could prevent similar incidents.
FBI involvement reflects the seriousness of the incident, and authorities are reviewing surveillance footage, witness statements, and all relevant security logs to understand the full sequence of events.
Summary of the Incident
- Time & Place: Around 6 p.m., Saturday, 17th Street & Pennsylvania Avenue NW, White House checkpoint.
- Suspect: 21-year-old man, previously known to Secret Service, stay-away order from White House, prior arrests and involuntary commitment.
- Action: Suspect removed a weapon from a bag and fired at officers.
- Response: Secret Service returned fire, killing the suspect.
- Casualties: Suspect killed; one bystander injured; no Secret Service officers hurt.
- Current Status: Investigation ongoing; FBI assisting; updates to be released when available.
- Context: Former President Trump was in the Oval Office; reporters were instructed to take cover.
This incident highlights the importance of strict White House security protocols and the rapid response of law enforcement to protect both personnel and the public.
