Gunman Fatally Shot by US Secret Service Near White House Checkpoint

White House Perimeter Breach Ends in Fatal Shooting

A dramatic incident unfolded near the White House on Saturday, May 23, 2026, when a man was fatally shot by US Secret Service officers after initiating gunfire at a security checkpoint. The event, which occurred shortly after 6 PM local time (22:00 GMT), also resulted in a bystander being wounded.

The suspect approached a Secret Service checkpoint located at the intersection of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, DC. According to an official statement from the Secret Service, a preliminary investigation indicated that the individual drew a weapon from a bag and began shooting at the officers stationed there. Secret Service agents returned fire, striking the gunman, who was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.

President Trump Secure During White House Lockdown

At the time of the shooting, President Donald Trump was inside the White House but was unharmed. The presidential residence was immediately placed under lockdown as a precautionary measure. No Secret Service personnel sustained injuries during the exchange.

Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin quickly confirmed he was monitoring the situation, stating on X (formerly Twitter) that "Tonight’s shooting is a reminder of the dangers our law enforcement officers face every day." House Majority Leader Steve Scalise also posted on social media, expressing concern for the president and noting, "We live in dangerous times." White House Director of Communications Steven Cheung affirmed President Trump's safety and activity, posting, "Trump was working at 8pm. Can’t stop, won’t stop."

Bystander Injured, Investigation Underway

During the intense exchange of gunfire, a bystander was hit. Authorities have not yet determined whether the bystander was struck by the suspect's initial shots or by the return fire from the Secret Service. Al Jazeera's Kimberly Halkett, reporting from the scene, noted that more than 30 shots were heard from the White House North Lawn. Journalists present were ordered to take shelter in the press briefing room, and authorities cordoned off the surrounding area, with National Guard troops blocking access.

Halkett also reported that the suspect had reportedly been issued a stay-away order, which he had disregarded before approaching the area and opening fire. The individual was subsequently transported to George Washington Hospital. FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed his agency was on-site, providing support to the Secret Service and pledged public updates as information became available. The identity and motive of the suspect have not been publicly disclosed, and the Secret Service continues its investigation.

Increased Security Concerns Following Recent Incidents

This incident follows closely on the heels of another security scare less than a month prior. On April 25, law enforcement described an attempted assassination attempt on President Trump when a suspect was arrested at a Washington hotel hosting the annual White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner. Al Jazeera's Kimberly Halkett commented on the increasing frequency of such incidents, raising renewed questions about presidential security arrangements.