A dramatic moment outside the White House was captured live on camera after a reporter suddenly heard gunshots while recording a news segment in Washington, D.C.
NBC journalist Julie Tsirkin was reporting from the White House grounds on May 23 when chaos erupted nearby, forcing reporters and staff members to quickly seek shelter.
Reporter Captures White House Shooting Reaction on Camera
Video later shared online showed Julie Tsirkin standing on the White House North Lawn moments before gunfire rang out in the area.
In the footage, multiple loud gunshots can reportedly be heard in the background while Tsirkin looks visibly confused and asks a cameraman what was happening.
At first, the cameraman reportedly suggested the sounds might have been fireworks.
However, the situation quickly became more serious as armed Secret Service agents moved into position.
Journalist Forced to Run for Safety
The video shows Tsirkin rushing toward the White House press briefing room after the shots were fired.
An armed Secret Service officer could reportedly be seen standing guard outside as security personnel responded to the incident.
Later, Tsirkin explained during a live television update that she and her cameraman heard what sounded like dozens of gunshots while preparing to record a segment.
She said a Secret Service agent emerged from a nearby security booth with weapons drawn and ordered everyone nearby to run inside immediately.
Suspect Identified by Authorities
Police later identified the suspect as Nasire Best, a 21-year-old man.
According to authorities, Best allegedly approached a Secret Service checkpoint near the White House carrying a firearm.
Investigators say he then opened fire toward the checkpoint area.
Bystander Injured During Incident
Officials confirmed that one bystander was injured during the shooting.
Secret Service agents reportedly returned fire and fatally shot the suspect at the scene.
Authorities have not yet released additional details regarding the injured bystander’s condition.
President Donald Trump Was Inside White House
At the time of the shooting, Donald Trump was reportedly inside the White House.
Officials later confirmed that the president was not harmed or directly affected during the incident.
The White House was temporarily placed under lockdown as security teams responded to the emergency.
Another Reporter Also Recorded the Chaos
ABC News correspondent Selina Wang was also reporting near the White House when the shooting happened.
She later shared footage captured from the North Lawn and described hearing what sounded like dozens of gunshots during the terrifying moment.
Secret Service Praised for Fast Response
Authorities and witnesses credited Secret Service agents for reacting quickly to the armed threat.
According to reports, security teams immediately secured the area and directed journalists and staff members to safety after shots were fired.
The incident once again highlighted the intense security measures surrounding the White House and other high-profile government locations in Washington, D.C.
Investigation Continues
Law enforcement agencies continue investigating the motive behind the shooting and the events leading up to the confrontation.
Officials are expected to review surveillance footage, witness statements, and evidence recovered from the scene.
The frightening incident caused panic among reporters, staff members, and visitors near the White House, especially as it unfolded live in front of television cameras. While authorities say the situation was quickly contained, the shocking footage captured by journalists has spread widely online, offering a rare real-time look at how fast security emergencies can unfold near one of the world’s most heavily protected buildings.
