By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
An armed suspect was shot and killed by U.S. Secret Service officers Saturday evening after authorities said the individual opened fire near a security checkpoint just outside the White House in Washington, D.C.
According to federal officials, the shooting occurred near the intersection of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW shortly after 6 p.m. President Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time, but officials said he was not harmed or directly impacted by the incident. Trump remained in Washington this weekend after canceling a planned trip to his golf club in New Jersey. White House Press Secretary later stated that the president was safe and being briefed on the situation as it unfolded.
Authorities said the suspect approached a checkpoint carrying a bag before allegedly removing a weapon and opening fire toward officers stationed in the area. Secret Service agents returned fire, striking the suspect. The individual was transported to a nearby hospital, where authorities later confirmed the suspect died from injuries sustained in the exchange.
Background on the suspect
Multiple media outlets identified the suspect as 21-year-old , a Maryland resident who authorities said used a revolver during the shooting. Reports indicated that Best fired only a small number of shots before Secret Service agents returned fire.
While investigators have not announced an official motive, several national outlets reported that authorities considered Best to be emotionally disturbed. Reports also indicated that Best had previous encounters with the Secret Service and had allegedly violated a court order directing him to stay away from the White House grounds.
According to published reports, Best was detained by Secret Service agents on June 26, 2025, after allegedly flagging down officers and making threats. He was reportedly detained again on July 10, 2025, after entering a restricted area near the White House complex.
Additional reports stated that Best had expressed delusional beliefs during prior encounters with authorities, including claims that he was Jesus Christ. After Saturday’s shooting, Best was transported to George Washington University Hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
As investigators worked to piece together the sequence of events, officials also confirmed that a bystander was injured during the exchange of gunfire. “During the shooting, a bystander was also struck by gunfire. It remains unclear whether the bystander was struck by the suspect’s initial gunfire or during the subsequent exchange of gunfire,” a White House spokesperson added. No Secret Service personnel were injured.
Following the shooting, portions of the White House complex were immediately locked down as heavily armed law enforcement officers secured the area. White House reporters working nearby said they heard multiple gunshots and were directed to shelter inside the press briefing room while authorities responded.
Video shared on social media by journalists at the scene captured the sound of rapid gunfire as reporters ducked for cover near the White House media area. Witnesses described hearing what sounded like “dozens of gunshots” during the chaotic moments following the confrontation.
The shooting comes amid growing national concern over political violence and threats against elected officials, government institutions, and law enforcement personnel in recent years. Federal authorities have repeatedly warned about an increase in politically motivated threats and attacks targeting public officials and high-profile government locations across the country.
In response to the incident, posted a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter, thanking the officers who responded to the scene.
“Thankful for the brave law enforcement officers who responded quickly to the shooting at the White House. Wesley and I are praying for the safety of @POTUS and everyone at the White House tonight as we await for more information,” Britt wrote.
Security concerns around the White House and other federal buildings have intensified following several recent incidents involving threats, attempted attacks, and acts of violence directed at political figures from both major parties. The heightened tensions have prompted expanded security measures in Washington and increased monitoring by federal law enforcement agencies.
The FBI and Secret Service are continuing to investigate the shooting and have not yet released additional details regarding the suspect’s identity or motive.
