By Bejamin Harris
A shooting incident near the White House prompted a temporary lockdown and a large law enforcement response in Washington on Friday evening. The incident occurred near the intersection of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, close to a security checkpoint monitored by the United States Secret Service.
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READ MORE: BREAKING: ‘Dozens’ Of Shots Fired Outside The White House
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According to officials, a suspect approached the checkpoint and reportedly removed a weapon from a bag before opening fire toward Secret Service personnel. Agents immediately responded to the threat and returned fire during the confrontation. Authorities later confirmed that the suspect was transported to a nearby hospital, where he died from his injuries.
The incident unfolded while members of the press were gathered on the White House north lawn. Journalists covering the scene were quickly escorted into the briefing room as security teams secured the area. The White House complex remained on lockdown for approximately 30 minutes while agents and emergency crews responded.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and United States Secret Service responded Friday evening after reports of gunfire near the White House. Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time and was reported safe. Journalists on the North Lawn said they heard multiple loud gunshots before security instructed everyone to take cover and evacuate to the briefing room. Authorities quickly secured the area and launched an investigation into the incident.1
Officials also confirmed that one bystander was injured during the exchange of gunfire. Investigators are still working to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the injury and whether the individual was struck during the initial attack or the later exchange between the suspect and law enforcement officers. No Secret Service agents were reported injured during the incident.
Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time of the shooting and was later briefed on the situation, according to administration officials. Authorities said the president was safe throughout the incident and continued working inside the White House after the lockdown was lifted.
Law enforcement agencies continue investigating the shooting, including the suspect’s motives and how the weapon was brought near the secured checkpoint area. The incident once again highlighted the extensive security measures surrounding the White House and the rapid response protocols used to protect government personnel, visitors, and the public in the nation’s capital.
Benjamin Harris is a contributor at Miimall.com