Gunfire near White House during Trump’s Iran talks, suspect shot dead by Secret Service
A suspect was shot dead by Secret Service agents after opening fire near the White House while Donald Trump was reportedly inside during Iran-related discussions.
Washington (The Uttam Hindu): A major security scare unfolded near the White House after a shooting incident took place close to a security checkpoint while US President Donald Trump was reportedly inside the presidential residence during discussions related to Iran.
According to US law enforcement officials, a suspect approached a security checkpoint near the western gate of the White House and suddenly opened fire at officers stationed there. Reports said nearly 20 to 30 rounds were fired during the incident. United States Secret Service agents immediately retaliated, critically injuring the suspect, who later died.
The suspect was identified by multiple US media outlets as 21-year-old Nasire Best from Maryland. Authorities said he had a previous history of encounters with law enforcement and reportedly suffered from mental health issues.
One bystander was also injured in the exchange of gunfire, although officials have not yet confirmed whether the person was hit by the suspect’s bullets or by return fire from officers.
Following the incident, the White House complex was immediately sealed off from all sides. Counter-sniper teams were deployed on rooftops, while staff members and journalists inside the complex were instructed to shelter in place. Security agencies later confirmed that President Trump and his family were safe and unharmed.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Secret Service have launched a detailed investigation into the motive behind the attack.