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Gunman fatally shot after firing near White House
Nasire Best, identified by Washington DC police, opened fire outside the White House on Saturday evening, injuring a bystander before Secret Service agents killed him, officials confirmed.
Previous incidents at the White House
Court documents show Best had multiple run-ins with authorities at the presidential residence. In June 2025, he blocked a White House entry lane and told Secret Service agents he was Jesus Christ, prompting a mental health evaluation.
A month later, in July 2025, Best attempted to enter the White House again. He was arrested and charged with unlawfully entering federally controlled property but was released after an arraignment.
Missed court appearance led to warrant
Best failed to appear for a status hearing in August 2025, resulting in a no-bond bench warrant for his arrest, according to court records.
Saturday's shooting incident
On Saturday at approximately 18:00 EST (23:00 GMT), Best fired shots near a Secret Service checkpoint at the intersection of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, close to the Eisenhower Executive Office Building. Journalists covering the scene took cover as gunfire erupted.
Secret Service officers returned fire, striking Best, who was later pronounced dead at a hospital. A bystander was also wounded and remained in stable condition as of Sunday, though authorities have not clarified how the bystander was shot. No officers were injured.
President Trump unharmed, praises response
President Donald Trump was inside the White House during the incident but was unharmed. No protective operations were disrupted, officials said.
"Thank you to our great Secret Service and Law Enforcement for the swift and professional action taken this evening against a gunman near the White House."
President Donald Trump, social media post
Recent security concerns at the White House
The shooting follows a separate incident last month, when a gunman opened fire at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, forcing an evacuation and cutting the event short. Trump was escorted out by Secret Service during that incident as well.
