Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Secret Service shot an armed man near the White House on Sunday evening, officials confirmed. The incident occurred at a security checkpoint, where the suspect allegedly refused to comply with commands before making a threatening move toward officers.
Incident Details
According to preliminary reports, the suspect approached a security checkpoint armed with a weapon. Secret Service officers ordered him to drop the firearm, but he refused and made a threatening movement.
“The suspect failed to comply with commands, prompting an officer to fire their weapon,” an official statement read.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the severity of the suspect’s injuries, but he was transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.
A Secret Service spokesperson issued a brief statement:
“The Secret Service takes any potential threat to the White House and surrounding areas very seriously. Our officers responded appropriately to neutralize the threat and ensure public safety.”
Eyewitness Accounts
A witness who happened to be walking past the scene recalled hearing gunshots and a sudden surge of law enforcement activity.
“I was just walking by when suddenly I heard yelling, and before I knew it, there was a gunshot. Then, seconds later, there were police officers everywhere,” said the witness, who preferred to remain anonymous.
White House Lockdown & Investigation
As a precaution, the White House was briefly placed on lockdown while law enforcement secured the area. Officials confirmed that President [Name] was inside the White House at the time but was not in immediate danger.
Following a thorough assessment, law enforcement lifted the lockdown, and normal operations resumed.
The identity and motive of the suspect remain unknown. The FBI and local authorities, including the Vienna Police, are collecting evidence and investigating whether this was an isolated incident or part of a larger threat.
Public Alert & Ongoing Investigation
Incidents of violence near the White House are rare, but Secret Service agents are highly trained to respond swiftly to any perceived threats.
Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
This is a developing story—officials will release further updates as more details emerge from the investigation.
