News cameras captured the alarming incident of gunfire near the White House, prompting the building to be placed on lockdown as around 20 to 30 shots were heard by journalists outside. Secret Service agents quickly escorted the journalists into the press room for safety.
According to Fox News, the shooter was apprehended by the Secret Service. CNN later reported that two individuals were shot during an encounter with the Secret Service at the White House.
NBC News reporter Julie Trskin recounted the event, stating that Secret Service instructed those present on the north lawn to seek refuge in the press briefing room due to the gunshots. She shared a photo showing an armed officer outside the briefing room, indicating the heightened security measures in place.
Social media images depicted snipers positioned on the White House roof and armed officers patrolling the lawn. Video footage captured reporters reacting to the gunshots by taking cover before armed officers swiftly responded to the situation.
At the time, there were no immediate reports of injuries or details on the circumstances surrounding the incident. The Secret Service acknowledged reports of shots fired near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, near the White House, and was working to verify the information on-site.
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the response to the gunfire and pledged to keep the public informed as the situation developed.
President Donald Trump was present inside the White House during the incident.
