US authorities have identified the man involved in a shooting near the White House security perimeter on Saturday evening as 21-year-old Nasire Best, according to several American media reports.
The incident took place near a security checkpoint close to the White House shortly after 6 pm local time. Officials said the suspect allegedly opened fire toward Secret Service officers before being critically injured in return fire. He later died at a hospital. A bystander was also hurt during the exchange.
US President Donald Trump was inside the White House when the shooting occurred but was reported safe.
Suspect had previous encounters with Secret Service
Multiple US media outlets reported that Best had a history of mental health concerns and had previously interacted with federal security officials.
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According to reports, the suspect had earlier been detained by the Secret Service after allegedly approaching officers and making threats in June 2025. He was reportedly taken into custody again in July 2025 after entering a restricted zone near the White House complex.
Some reports also claimed that Best had previously attempted to access the White House area and may have violated a court order instructing him to stay away from the location. Authorities have not officially confirmed several of these claims.
Investigators have not yet publicly disclosed a clear motive behind the shooting.
Shooting took place near White House checkpoint
The gunfire erupted near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, just a short distance from the White House.
According to the US Secret Service, the suspect approached the checkpoint, removed a firearm from a bag and began firing toward officers stationed there. Security personnel immediately responded by opening fire.
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Journalists present near the White House reported hearing several gunshots before being directed to take shelter inside the press briefing room.
Bystander injured during exchange of fire
Officials confirmed that a civilian was also injured during the shooting. However, investigators are still trying to determine whether the bystander was struck by bullets fired by the suspect or during the officers’ response.
Images from the scene showed a large emergency response operation outside the White House complex, with law enforcement officers, barricades, evidence markers and medical equipment spread across the area as investigators continued examining the site.
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First published on: May 24, 2026 07:28 AM IST
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