Secret Service Exchanges Fire With Armed Suspect Near White House, Bystander Injured
on May 05, 2026
Secret Service Shoots Individual With Firearm
A U.S. Secret Service officer shot an armed individual during an exchange of gunfire near the White House, authorities said.
The incident occurred on Monday (May 4) near 15th Street and Independence Avenue SW, close to the Washington Monument. According to officials, Secret Service personnel observed a person who appeared to be carrying a firearm and approached the individual.
Authorities said the suspect fled and then opened fire on the officers. Secret Service agents returned fire, striking the individual, who was transported to a hospital. The suspect’s condition has not been disclosed.
A juvenile bystander was also struck during the incident and suffered injuries described as non-life-threatening. No Secret Service personnel were reportedly injured.
Attn: Police Investigation Road Closures
— DC Police Traffic (@DCPoliceTraffic) May 4, 2026
⛔️15th St from Constitution Ave NW to Maine Ave SW (NTN & S)
⛔️Independence Ave SW from 14th St to 15th St SW /including on Ramp (NTW)
🚗Seek an alternate route or follow the directions provided by USSS & MPD – Closures subject to change
Details Surrounding The Incident
The shooting forced a temporary lockdown of the White House as a precaution. Officials said there is no indication that the incident was directly connected to the White House or that any protectee was specifically targeted.
The exchange occurred shortly after a motorcade carrying Vice President JD Vance passed through the area, though authorities have not indicated any link between the two events.
President Donald Trump was hosting a small business event inside the White House when the incident occurred and was initially unaware of the situation. It’s unclear whether the incident had any connection to Trump or the White House.
