Suspect dead, bystander wounded after exchange of gunfire near White House: Secret Service
The White House North Lawn was cleared by Secret Service on Saturday.
WASHINGTON -- The Secret Service said officers shot and killed an armed man who opened fire at a White House checkpoint Saturday evening.
A bystander was also struck by gunfire in the incident, but it was not immediately clear how, the Secret Service said.
The unidentified man allegedly walked up to the checkpoint in the area of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW around 6 p.m., removed a weapons from a bag and began firing at the officers posted at the spot, the Secret Service said.
"Secret Service police officers returned fire, striking the suspect, who was transported to an area hospital, where he later died," the Secret Service said in a statement.
The bystander, who was nearby, was shot during the incident, according to the Secret Service.
"It remains unclear whether the bystander was struck by the suspect's initial gunfire or during the subsequent exchange of gunfire," the Secret Service said.
There was no immediate word on the bystander's condition.
No Secret Service members were hurt during the incident, which is still under investigation.
At the time of the shooting, Trump was in the Oval Office working with aides Steven Cheung, Natalie Harp, Margo Martin and others, according to a White House Official.
ABC News' Selina Wang was filming a piece for social media platforms at the White House when the apparent gun shots sounded. She and crew members quickly ducked for cover.
FBI Director Kash Patel said in an X post that the agency is on scene and assisting the Secret Service.
"We will update the public as we're able," Patel said.
When the gunshots sounded, reporters were told to sprint into the White House Press Briefing Room.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
