Share and Follow
A dramatic and dangerous incident unfolded near the White House on Saturday evening, resulting in gunfire and the eventual death of a suspect. According to a statement from the Secret Service, officers were forced to open fire after the suspect began shooting at them at a security checkpoint.
The confrontation occurred at a checkpoint positioned at the intersection of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, a location just steps from the White House. The suspect reportedly approached the checkpoint, withdrew a firearm from his bag, and fired at the officers on duty.
In response, the officers returned fire, hitting the suspect. He was subsequently taken to a hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries, as confirmed by the Secret Service.
The scene, quickly swarmed by law enforcement, sparked an intense investigation. Officers meticulously examined the area for evidence, ensuring the safety of this highly sensitive zone close to the nation’s seat of power.
A bystander was also struck by gunfire, but it was not clear how badly the person was hurt, according to a separate Secret Service statement cited by multiple news outlets.
The statement said it was not clear who fired the shot that hit the bystander.
Two people, including the suspect, were shot and taken to a local hospital. The suspect later died. Source: AP / CNP/ABACA/PA
The shooting suspect was identified as an emotionally disturbed person, a law enforcement official told Reuters, adding that a “stay-away order” had been issued to him previously.
No law enforcement personnel were injured, the Secret Service said.
President Donald Trump was at the White House during the incident, the Secret Service said.
— Reuters, Alexandra Koster