Secret Service Fatally Shoots Man After White House Checkpoint Gunfire
Secret Service officers fatally shot a gunman at a White House checkpoint, leading to a brief lockdown and an ongoing investigation.
Lauren Collins ·
U.S. Secret Service officers fatally shot a man after an exchange of gunfire at a security checkpoint near the White House on Saturday, May 23, 2026, prompting a brief lockdown of the complex, officials said. The shooting happened shortly after 6 p.m. EDT at the checkpoint at 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW. Officers said the man approached the post, pulled a firearm from a bag and fired at officers, who returned fire.
The suspect was taken to a hospital and later died, officials said. No Secret Service personnel were injured.
A bystander was also wounded by gunfire during the incident, officials said. Authorities said it was not immediately clear who fired the round that struck that person, and their condition was not immediately available.
Suspect identified; prior incidents noted
Officials identified the suspect as Nasire Best, 21. Authorities said he had a documented history with local law enforcement and a history of mental health concerns.
Best had previously been arrested on a charge of unlawful entry near the White House on July 10, according to a court filing. During that incident, he claimed to be Jesus Christ and said he wanted to be arrested, the filing said.
In June, he was involuntarily committed after obstructing vehicle entry to the White House complex, officials said.
Lockdown timeline and investigation
President Donald Trump was at the White House at the time of the shooting but was not injured, officials said. A White House official confirmed the Secret Service briefed Trump about the incident.
The White House complex was locked down from about 6:04 p.m. until 6:46 p.m., officials said. The FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Metropolitan Police Department are assisting the Secret Service as the investigation continues.
Authorities have not released additional details about the suspect’s firearm or what led up to the confrontation. Investigators are expected to provide further updates as they review evidence and witness accounts.