Gunshots Rock White House, Two People Hit in Encounter With Secret Service

Multiple gunshots were heard near the White House on Saturday evening, setting off an immediate security response and placing the complex on lockdown. 2 people have been shot. CNN reporters at the scene said they heard what sounded like dozens of shots, while NBC News put the number at approximately 20 to 30 rounds fired.

The Secret Service said it was investigating reports of shots fired at the corner of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest, a location just outside the White House complex. According to Axios, President Trump was in the White House when the shots were heard.

FBI Director Kash Patel issued a statement on X which read – “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”.

Press corps rushed inside

Journalists who were gathered on the North Lawn at the time were quickly ordered by Secret Service agents to run inside the White House briefing room. Once inside, reporters were told to shelter in place.

Agents were heard shouting “get down” and warning of “shots fired” as the situation unfolded.

One reporter present said the sounds appeared to originate from the side of the complex near the Eisenhower Executive Office Building.

Agents deploy across the grounds

Following the incident, Secret Service agents carrying rifles were seen moving through the North Lawn and taking up positions around the White House press briefing room. The area was quickly blocked off as the agency worked to establish control of the scene.

Several local and national television correspondents who were on the grounds at the time reported the shooting on social media as events were still unfolding, confirming they had been directed by agents to seek shelter immediately.

What we know so far

At the time of reporting, the Secret Service had not confirmed a suspect or provided any other details. The investigation was described as active and ongoing.

The White House lockdown was lifted at around 6:45 p.m. ET.