An armed individual approached the White House and opened fire on Saturday night, according to multiple news reports. The incident occurred while President Trump was present at the White House. FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that gunfire was reported near the White House, and the Secret Service responded to the situation. The Secret Service stated that it was investigating reports of gunfire near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, which is located at the northwest corner of the White House grounds.
Fox News reported that the shooter fired multiple shots at one of the White House gates, prompting the Secret Service to return fire. CNN cited a law enforcement official indicating that two individuals were shot during the encounter with the Secret Service, one being the shooter and the other a bystander. Reports from CBS and NBC confirmed that both shooting victims were alive as of approximately 7:15 p.m. ET.
Local and national reporters present at the White House reported hearing multiple shots around 6:15 p.m. ET and were instructed by the Secret Service to take shelter. Video footage shared on social media captured the sound of numerous shots being fired, followed by reporters seeking cover. The lockdown at the White House was reportedly lifted around 6:50 p.m. ET.