Secret Service agents shot a suspect and a bystander near the White House on May 23, 2026, leaving both critically injured. The incident prompted a temporary lockdown of the White House, with President Trump inside at the time.
Gunfire Erupts Near White House
The U.S. Secret Service shot a person near the White House on Saturday, May 23, 2026, and a bystander was also wounded, according to law enforcement officials. Both individuals were in critical condition, though the suspect's condition was described as more severe. The incident occurred near the intersection of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, just one block from the White House. President Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time, working on negotiations with Iran.
Reporters on the White House North Lawn were ordered to take shelter in the press briefing room after hearing what they described as dozens of gunshots. ABC News correspondent Selina Wang captured the moment on video, showing her diving to the ground as shots rang out. The Secret Service confirmed it was aware of the reports and was working to corroborate the information with personnel on the ground. FBI Director Kash Patel also confirmed the FBI's presence, stating they would update the public as more information became available.
White House Lockdown and Investigation
The White House was placed on lockdown, and the North Lawn was cleared. Evidence of the shooting, including crime scene tape and medical materials, was visible outside the White House complex. The lockdown was lifted shortly after 6:45 p.m., and reporters were allowed back on the lawn. No Secret Service agents were hospitalized, though several were evaluated at the scene.
The incident comes less than a month after a shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in late April. The Secret Service and FBI are leading the investigation, with updates expected as the situation develops.