Shooting Incident Outside White House Leaves One Dead and One Injured

A shooting incident near the White House on Saturday, May 23, resulted in one fatality and one serious injury after gunfire erupted close to the complex in Washington, D.C.

Authorities confirmed that two individuals were struck near the intersection of Pennsylvania Avenue and 17th Street Northwest, just outside the secured White House perimeter.

Suspect Identified as 21-Year-Old Nasire Best

The suspect has been identified as Nasire Best, a 21-year-old man who was shot and killed by Secret Service agents during the confrontation.

Reports indicate that Best approached a White House security checkpoint, removed a firearm from his bag, and opened fire toward the area before agents responded with lethal force.

He was transported to a nearby hospital but was later pronounced dead. One civilian victim was also hospitalized with serious injuries, while no law enforcement personnel were harmed.

President Trump Inside White House During Attack

At the time of the incident, Donald Trump was present inside the White House. Officials confirmed he was safe and not directly affected by the attack.

Following the event, Trump praised law enforcement response on social media and emphasized the need for enhanced security infrastructure around the presidential residence.

Previous Encounters With Authorities

Investigators revealed that the suspect had previously been involved in multiple incidents near the White House complex:

• In July 2025, he was arrested for misdemeanor unlawful entry after entering a restricted area of White House grounds. During that incident, he reportedly made unusual statements claiming he was “Jesus Christ.”
• Secret Service personnel had previously observed him attempting to access secure entry points around the complex.
• He was later barred from the White House premises following his arrest.
• A bench warrant was issued after he failed to appear in court later that year.
• Earlier, in June 2025, he was briefly placed in a psychiatric facility after blocking a vehicle entry point near the White House.

Officials stated that at the time of the shooting, there were no active warrants against him.

Incident Timeline and Gunfire Details

According to law enforcement reports, an estimated 10 to 20 rounds were fired toward a security booth located outside the White House perimeter.

The area was immediately placed on lockdown, which lasted until approximately 6:45 p.m. local time as security teams secured the site.

Journalist Captures Real-Time Chaos

ABC News correspondent Selina Wang recorded video footage from the White House North Lawn during the attack.

She described the sound as resembling multiple rapid gunshots and stated that journalists were instructed to immediately run to the press briefing room for safety.

Official Response and Investigation

Authorities, including the FBI and Secret Service, have referred further inquiries to local law enforcement agencies for verification and ongoing investigation.

White House officials have not yet issued additional detailed comments regarding the incident.

Case Summary

The incident is being investigated as a deadly security breach involving a previously known individual with prior contact with Secret Service. The event has renewed concerns about security around the White House complex and prompted discussions on enhanced protective measures.