US law enforcement agencies responded to reports of shots fired near the White House on Saturday evening, May 23, 2026 [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. More than 20 shots were reportedly fired near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, just one block from the White House [1, 2, 3]. President Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time of the gunfire [1, 2, 3, 5].
The Secret Service and FBI confirmed they were responding to the shots and working to corroborate reports on the ground [1, 3, 4, 5]. Journalists present on White House grounds were instructed to take shelter while the incident unfolded [1, 2, 3].
Authorities said the suspect fired shots at the White House gate but did not breach the perimeter. Secret Service agents shot the suspect during the confrontation [2, 5]. At least two people, including the suspect, were wounded near the White House in the incident [4, 5]. One civilian victim is reported to be in serious condition [5].
The White House lockdown was lifted after the situation came under control [5]. FBI Director Kash Patel said, "FBI is on the scene and supporting Secret Service responding to shots fired near White House grounds — we will update the public as we’re able" [5].
This shooting comes about four weeks after an alleged assassination attempt targeting President Trump at the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner on April 25 [1, 2].
