White House Placed Under Lockdown After Gunshots Fired While Donald Trump Was Inside

The White House was briefly placed under lockdown on Saturday, May 23, after gunshots were reportedly fired while President Donald Trump was inside.

The suspect was later killed that evening in Washington, D.C., after opening fire on Secret Service agents near the White House.

Journalists who were working at the White House were forced to run for cover. after gunfire was first heard at around 18:00 local time (23:00 GMT).

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel confirmed the incident, saying the FBI is on-site to help the Secret Service contain the situation.

“FBI is on the scene and supporting Secret Service responding to shots fired near White House grounds – we will update the public as we’re able,” Patel said.

White House Statement

White House said the suspect pulled a weapon from his bag before opening fire on the officers shortly after 6 p.m.

The agents returned fire, striking the man, who was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.

A bystander was also hit during the shooting.

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However, the authorities have not revealed whether they were struck by the suspect’s first gunshot or during the exchange that followed.

“Shortly after 6 p.m Saturday, an individual in the area of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue pulled a weapon from his bag and began firing,” reads a statement from the White House.

“Secret Service Police returned fire, striking the suspect, who was transported to an area hospital where he was pronounced deceased. During the shooting, one bystander was also struck by gunfire.”

Also Read: Trump Rushed Off Stage After Gunman Opens Fire at White House

President Trump is Safe

The White House has clarified that Trump was inside the White House but was not affected by the incident.

It further stated that no officer was injured during the gunfire, and investigations into the incident are ongoing.

“No injuries were sustained by officers. The President was in the White House during the incident, however no protectees or operations were impacted,” adds the statement.

“This incident remains under investigation, and additional information will be released as it becomes available.”

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US President Donald Trump during a past press conference. PHOTO/ The Washington Post.