Gunfire Erupts Near White House, Prompting Swift Secret Service Response
Incident Overview
A chaotic scene unfolded outside the White House on Sunday evening when a gunman opened fire near a security checkpoint. This alarming event led to journalists and visitors seeking immediate safety as Secret Service agents engaged the suspect, ultimately resulting in the gunman's death. The incident took place around 6 PM local time, coinciding with live broadcasts from several television crews stationed on the White House North Lawn. ABC News correspondent Selina Wang was in the midst of filming when the sound of gunfire abruptly interrupted her report.
I was in the middle of taping on my iPhone for a social video from the White House North Lawn when we heard the shots. It sounded like dozens of gunshots. We were told to sprint to the press briefing room where we are holding now. pic.twitter.com/iqdQwh4soq
— Selina Wang (@selinawangtv) May 23, 2026
Wang later recounted on X that the sound of gunfire was overwhelming, describing the ensuing chaos as reporters ducked for cover and sought refuge. NBC News journalist Julie Tsirkin also found herself in the midst of the turmoil, with cameras capturing the frantic moments as security personnel directed everyone off the lawn and into the White House press briefing room.
NBC News Capitol Hill Correspondent Julie Tsirkin was preparing to report from the White House when multiple shots could be heard being fired nearby. pic.twitter.com/d8POlm5QUF
— NBC10 Boston (@NBC10Boston) May 23, 2026
Another reporter, who was on camera at the time, quickly detached his microphone and fled upon hearing the gunfire. According to the US Secret Service, the assailant produced a firearm from a bag and began shooting near a White House checkpoint, prompting agents to return fire. The suspect was killed in the exchange, and at least one bystander sustained injuries during the incident.
President Donald Trump was present in the White House during the shooting but was unharmed, as confirmed by Secret Service communications chief Anthony Guglielmi. Eyewitness accounts painted a picture of confusion and panic, with Canadian tourist Reid Adrian stating, “We heard probably 20 to 25 shots. At first, it sounded like fireworks, and then everyone started running.”
This incident has reignited concerns regarding security measures surrounding Trump, who has faced numerous threats and alleged assassination attempts in recent years. Just last month, an armed individual breached a security checkpoint near a Washington hotel where the White House Correspondents’ Dinner was taking place, an event attended by Trump. Secret Service agents swiftly apprehended the suspect.
In July 2024, Trump survived an assassination attempt during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where a gunman killed one audience member and grazed Trump’s ear with a bullet. Subsequently, another armed suspect was arrested near Trump’s golf course in West Palm Beach. In light of these recurring security threats, Trump has been a strong proponent of enhancing protective measures at the White House. His administration is currently overseeing the construction of a new ballroom complex, reportedly designed with advanced security features, including underground facilities and protections against drones.