WASHINGTON, D.C. — Multiple people were injured Saturday evening following a shooting near the White House that triggered a massive emergency response, temporary lockdowns, and a large federal law enforcement presence in the nation’s capital.
According to multiple reports, the incident unfolded shortly after 6 p.m. near the intersection of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, just outside the White House complex. Authorities say an armed suspect reportedly approached a Secret Service security checkpoint and opened fire, prompting agents to return gunfire.
Initial emergency radio traffic indicated:
- 2 Priority 1 patients transported
- 2 Priority 2 patients transported
- Additional patients were still being evaluated on scene during the early stages of the response
Federal authorities later confirmed at least two people were shot, including the suspected gunman and at least one bystander. Several reports indicate the suspect was transported to a nearby hospital where he later died from injuries sustained during the exchange of gunfire.
Witnesses and reporters near the White House described hearing between 15 and 30 rapid gunshots before Secret Service agents rushed members of the media and civilians into secure areas. Video captured by national media crews showed reporters taking cover as heavily armed agents flooded the scene.
The White House complex was briefly placed on lockdown as agents secured the area. Law enforcement officials stated there was no breach of the White House grounds itself.
The U.S. Secret Service is leading the investigation with assistance from the FBI, ATF, and Metropolitan Police Department. Authorities recovered a firearm believed to belong to the suspect.
The identity of the suspect has not officially been released by federal authorities. Investigators are continuing to work to determine a motive behind the shooting.
This remains a developing story and additional information is expected to be released later tonight.
