White House Shooting Incident
Shots were fired near the northwestern corner of the White House complex while President Trump was inside. The Secret Service returned fire, resulting in the death of the gunman.
Incident Details
The latest shooting took place on Saturday evening when a gunman approached the White House complex, drew a firearm from a bag, and opened fire. Secret Service officers responded by shooting and fatally wounding the suspect. During the confrontation, a bystander was also struck by gunfire, though Secret Service officials have not disclosed further details about the individual’s condition. Fortunately, no officers were injured in the exchange.
President Trump, who was at the White House during the incident, expressed gratitude to the Secret Service and law enforcement officers for their actions. He labeled the gunman as having a “violent history” and a “possible obsession” with the White House.
Who Was the Shooter?
The gunman has been identified as Nasire Best, 21, according to two officials with knowledge of the investigation. He was transported to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Mr. Best had a record of incidents involving the White House grounds. He was arrested last July after entering a restricted area and disregarding commands to stop. An affidavit filed in D.C. Superior Court detailed that Mr. Best was already known to Secret Service personnel for roaming the White House complex and inquiring about access at various entry points.
He had previously been involuntarily held for blocking a vehicle entry on the east side of the White House in June. During that arrest, charged with unlawful entry, Mr. Best claimed to officers that “he was Jesus Christ and that he wanted to get arrested.” His arrest at that time did not involve any pending warrants.
The Secret Service’s quick response ensured that the situation was contained without further casualties or injuries.