Suspect killed after opening fire on Secret Service near White House

May 24, 2026

A 21-year-old man named Nasire Best opened fire at a White House security checkpoint on Saturday evening and was fatally shot by Secret Service agents who returned fire during the exchange. Best, who had a documented mental health history, was known to authorities and had previously attempted to enter the White House in July 2025, leading to his arrest and psychiatric hospitalization. A bystander sustained injuries in the incident while no Secret Service officers or the president were harmed, though President Trump was inside the White House at the time.

Who is affected

Nasire Best, the 21-year-old suspect who was killed
A bystander who was wounded in the shooting
Secret Service agents who engaged in the gunfire exchange
President Donald Trump (present in the White House during the incident)
White House reporters who were rushed into lockdown
The Secret Service and Metropolitan Police Department

What action is being taken

The incident remains under investigation
Road closures around the White House are in place

Why it matters

This shooting represents the second major security incident near the White House within a month, highlighting ongoing threats to one of America's most protected locations. The incident demonstrates vulnerabilities in White House perimeter security and raises concerns about individuals with mental health issues and prior warning signs being able to approach secure areas with weapons. The event has reinforced President Trump's arguments for enhanced security infrastructure, including his proposed ballroom project, as essential for protecting current and future presidents.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC