Multiple gunshots were reportedly heard near the White House on Sunday, triggering a massive security response while US President Donald Trump was inside the complex during ongoing Iran-related negotiations, according to reports.
As per CBS News, between 10 and 20 shots were allegedly fired after a suspect targeted a US Secret Service security booth near the White House. The suspect, identified as Nasire Best, was shot dead by Secret Service agents after an exchange of gunfire near the presidential complex.
According to the New York Post, Best was seen pacing suspiciously near 17th Street Northwest before allegedly pulling out a revolver and firing multiple rounds toward officers stationed at a checkpoint. Reports claimed the suspect identified himself as Jesus Christ before opening fire.
A bystander was reportedly injured in the incident, while no Secret Service officers were believed to have been hit.
The shooting occurred while Trump was inside the White House amid diplomatic discussions linked to Iran and a proposed Middle East peace framework.
Reacting to the incident, FBI Director Kash Patel said on X, "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."
ABC journalist Selina Wang said media personnel were rushed to the press briefing room after the gunshots were heard near the White House.
"I was in the middle of taping on my iPhone for a social video from the White House North Lawn when we heard the shots. It sounded like dozens of gunshots. We were told to sprint to the press briefing room where we are holding now," Wang posted on X.
Later, Trump praised the Secret Service and law enforcement agencies for their "swift and professional" response.
Posting on Truth Social, Trump wrote, "Thank you to our great Secret Service and Law Enforcement for the swift and professional action taken this evening against a gunman near the White House, who had a violent history and possible obsession with our Country's most cherished structure."
He added that the incident highlighted the need for stronger security measures around the White House and future presidents.
The incident quickly sparked reactions on X, with some users expressing concern over security lapses despite the heavy protection around the White House, while others questioned the authenticity of the reports.
The shooting also renewed attention on previous assassination attempts targeting Trump. In September 2025, Ryan Wesley Routh was convicted for attempting to assassinate Trump at the Trump International Golf Club in Florida and was later sentenced to life imprisonment without parole. Earlier, during Trump's 2024 presidential campaign, Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire from a rooftop, with a bullet grazing Trump's right ear before the gunman was killed by a Secret Service sniper.
