An armed individual was shot by the US Secret Service in the vicinity of the White House in Washington DC after allegedly firing at officers on the National Mall. The incident unfolded when Secret Service officers confronted the suspect, prompting them to return fire. Reports indicate that a bystander was also injured during the exchange.
Secret Service Deputy Director Matt Quinn confirmed that the Vice President’s motorcade had passed through the area shortly before the shooting, although there are no indications that it was a target in the incident. The Secret Service initially communicated to the public via social media about an officer-involved shooting at the intersection of 15th Street and Independence Avenue, stating that one individual was shot, with the condition remaining unknown at that time.
Authorities responded to the scene, advising the public to steer clear as they managed the situation. Subsequent updates from the Secret Service clarified that the confrontation involved an armed individual and their officers. A press briefing is expected to follow later in the morning.
According to Vito Maggiolo, a spokesperson for Washington DC’s Fire and EMS Department, an adult male was transported to the hospital, while a younger male, presumed to be a teenager, was treated for minor injuries.
The incident caused a temporary lockdown of the White House; however, operations resumed later. President Donald Trump was hosting a pro-small business event at the time of the shooting, which reportedly continued without disruptions. Journalists outside the White House were subsequently ushered into the briefing room for safety as the situation unfolded.