RismadarVoice Reporters, May 5, 2026
U.S. Secret Service agents shot an armed suspect near the White House on Monday after he allegedly opened fire during an attempted apprehension, authorities said, in an incident that briefly heightened security across the presidential complex.
According to Secret Service Deputy Director Matthew Quinn, plainclothes officers first identified the individual around 3:30 p.m. ET as a “suspicious” person appearing to carry a firearm. Uniformed officers were alerted and moved in to detain him.
Quinn said the suspect fled on foot and, during the pursuit, brandished a weapon and fired toward agents, who returned fire. The suspect was struck and transported to a hospital; his condition has not been disclosed.
A bystander described as a minor was also hit by gunfire believed to have come from the suspect. The individual sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to a hospital for treatment.
The confrontation occurred near 15th Street and Independence Avenue, a short distance from the White House grounds. Authorities have not determined whether the incident was connected to Donald Trump or the White House directly.
At the time of the shooting, Trump was hosting a small business summit inside the East Room, which continued uninterrupted. Meanwhile, the motorcade of Vice President JD Vance passed close to the scene shortly before gunfire erupted. Officials said there is no indication the suspect targeted the motorcade.
Witnesses reported seeing a man running toward the direction of the motorcade before hearing several shots. Shortly afterwards, law enforcement officers, including National Guard personnel, moved rapidly toward the area.
Security protocols were briefly activated at the White House, with the North Lawn evacuated and members of the press ushered indoors. Access was restored within minutes.
Quinn confirmed that a weapon was recovered at the scene but declined to provide further details. The investigation has been handed over to the Metropolitan Police Department.
The incident comes amid heightened security concerns following a recent attempted assassination case involving a California man, though officials cautioned it remains unclear whether Monday’s events are related.
“We patrol this area 24/7,” Quinn said. “Whether or not it was directed at the president, we will determine that as the investigation proceeds.”
