A tense security scare unfolded near the White House on Monday when US Secret Service officers shot an armed individual following a confrontation that triggered a brief lockdown of the presidential complex. A juvenile bystander was also injured in the incident, though officials said the injuries were not life-threatening.
The episode, which took place just over half a mile from the White House near 15th Street and Independence Avenue, comes at a time of heightened alert in Washington. Authorities moved quickly to secure the area, assuring there was no immediate indication of a broader threat or any direct targeting of the president.
How the confrontation unfolded near the National Mall
According to the US Secret Service, personnel identified a “suspicious individual” who appeared to be carrying a firearm while patrolling the outer perimeter. Deputy Director Matt Quinn said officers noticed what he described as a “visual print of a firearm”.
“Upon making contact, that individual fled briefly on foot, withdrew a firearm and fired in the direction of our agents and officers. They returned fire and engaged,” Quinn told reporters.
The suspect was hit during the exchange and later taken to a hospital. Officials said his condition remains unknown.
A federal source cited by Fox News said the suspect pulled out a gun during the encounter, prompting officers to open fire.
Bystander injured, but out of danger
Amid the gunfire, a juvenile bystander was struck. Quinn said the child “did not sustain any life-threatening injuries” and is currently receiving treatment at a hospital.
He indicated initial findings suggest the child may have been hit by the suspect’s gunfire.
White House briefly locked down, activity resumes
Following the shooting, security agencies moved swiftly, directing reporters on the North Lawn to move indoors as a precaution. The White House was placed under a temporary lockdown, which was lifted within minutes.
President Donald Trump, who was inside the complex, went ahead with a scheduled small business event in the East Room. He did not directly address the shooting but said Washington “is now one of the safest cities in the United States”.
No confirmed link to Trump or Vance
Officials said there is no immediate evidence to suggest the suspect was targeting the president or the White House.
“I can’t say_I’m not going to guess on that,” Quinn said when asked about a possible motive. “I can tell you that every time we’re patrolling this area. In every site, we do 24/7, hardcore, whether or not it was directed to the president or not, I don’t know. But we will find out.”
He also confirmed that Vice President JD Vance’s motorcade had passed through the area shortly before the shooting, but clarified that the two incidents were not connected.
Investigation underway, area secured
The Metropolitan Police Department has taken over the investigation. Authorities confirmed that a weapon was recovered from the scene and said the situation was quickly contained.
In a statement on X, the Secret Service said, “One individual was shot by law enforcement; their condition is currently unknown. Please avoid the area as emergency crews are responding.”
Officials have urged the public to steer clear of the vicinity as road closures and security measures remain in place.