A bystander wounded in a shooting near the White House on May 23 is an active-duty soldier who remains hospitalized, according to his law firm. Benjamin Del Real, 25, a private first class in the Army, was seriously injured during an exchange of gunfire outside a Secret Service checkpoint. The gunman, Nasire Best, 21, was killed in the incident. Del Real, who was visiting Washington, D.C., as a tourist, underwent surgery and is still recovering from his injuries, his attorney, Joseph Murphy, said in a statement. The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and the Secret Service are investigating the shooting, with ballistics evidence still pending. Del Real’s lawyer confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, and the findings will be turned over to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Background and Context
The shooting occurred when Best approached Secret Service officers at a checkpoint near the White House and began firing. Reports indicate that 20 to 30 gunshots were heard by reporters on the White House North Lawn. Best had a documented history of mental health issues and a prior encounter with the Secret Service in July 2025, when he claimed to be Jesus Christ and attempted to enter a White House checkpoint without authorization. He was arrested at that time.
Unresolved Questions
It remains unclear whether Del Real was shot by Best or by Secret Service agents returning fire. The MPD’s Internal Affairs division is leading the investigation, but neither the Secret Service nor the MPD has confirmed the source of the bullet that struck Del Real. His law firm stated that they are gathering all available facts to determine the circumstances of the shooting. Del Real is receiving therapy at an undisclosed location, according to his attorney.
Legal and Investigative Steps
Murphy, a former Army officer, emphasized that the focus remains on Del Real’s recovery. The Clifford Law Offices, representing Del Real, stated that they will work with authorities to ensure a full understanding of the events. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will review the MPD’s findings once the investigation is complete. No charges have been filed as of now, and the case remains under active review.