U.S. Secret Service agents shot and killed a gunman who opened fire near a White House security checkpoint on Saturday [1].
The incident represents a severe security breach at the primary residence and office of the U.S. president, highlighting the persistent risks facing the executive branch's protective detail.
The shooting occurred just after 6 p.m. local time [1], or 22:00 GMT [3], on May 23, 2026. The assailant targeted the north-lawn security checkpoint in Washington, D.C. [1], [2]. Agents engaged the gunman in a shoot-out, resulting in the death of one person, the assailant [3].
In addition to the gunman's death, one civilian bystander was wounded during the exchange [2]. Emergency responders arrived at the scene to treat the injured individual while law enforcement secured the perimeter.
President Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time of the attack. He was unharmed during the incident [1].
Authorities have not yet disclosed the motive behind the attack or the identity of the shooter [1], [3]. The Secret Service continues to investigate how the gunman approached the checkpoint and whether other suspects were involved. The north-lawn area remained under heavy guard following the confrontation as investigators searched for further evidence.
“U.S. Secret Service agents shot and killed a gunman who opened fire near a White House security checkpoint”
This event underscores the volatility of security environments in Washington, D.C., and the high-stakes nature of the Secret Service's mandate. The fact that a gunman could engage officers at a primary checkpoint suggests a direct challenge to the perimeter defenses of the White House, likely prompting a review of security protocols for the north-lawn access points.
