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The White House was briefly locked down Monday afternoon after a United States Secret Service officer exchanged gunfire with an armed individual near the complex, authorities said.
The suspect, whose identity has not been released, was shot around 3:30 p.m. near the Washington Monument at 15th Street SW and Independence Avenue SW — just moments after Vice President JD Vance passed through the area in a motorcade.
Secret Service Deputy Director Matthew Quinn said plainclothes agents patrolling the outer perimeter spotted a “suspicious individual” who appeared to be carrying a firearm.
When uniformed officers approached, the person attempted to flee on foot before opening fire, Quinn said. Agents returned fire, striking the individual, who was taken to a hospital. The person’s condition has not been disclosed.
Authorities said at least one bystander — a child — was struck by gunfire during the incident. The injuries were not considered life-threatening.
Officials have not yet determined whether the suspect was targeting a specific individual or location.
“We’re patrolling this area 24/7,” Quinn said at a news conference. “Whether or not it was directed at the president or not, I don’t know, but we will find out.”
Following the shooting, Secret Service personnel temporarily locked down parts of the White House complex. Members of the press on the North Lawn were quickly moved inside to the briefing room as a precaution.
Witnesses described a sudden and chaotic scene.
The Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia is leading the investigation, with assistance from federal agencies. Authorities said roads around the scene would remain closed for several hours as investigators process evidence.
The incident underscores the heightened security posture around the White House, where multiple layers of law enforcement maintain constant surveillance of the surrounding area.
Officials said more details would be released as the investigation develops.
