Washington, D.C. – Reports of multiple gunshots near the White House complex on Saturday evening, May 23, 2026, led to a brief lockdown of the presidential residence and surrounding area.
Journalists on the North Lawn, including ABC News correspondent Selina Wang, described hearing approximately 20 to 30 loud bangs consistent with gunfire around 10:09 p.m. ET near 17th Street NW and Pennsylvania Avenue NW. Secret Service agents quickly moved press members into the briefing room for safety, with countersnipers visible on the lawn and agents shouting commands such as “shots fired” and “get down.”
President Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time. There are no reports of injuries to the president, first lady, or other protected officials. Authorities have not confirmed a breach of the White House grounds.
D.C. Fire and EMS responded to the scene and are treating two patients, according to multiple reports from the area. Details on the nature of their injuries or involvement remain limited as the situation develops.
The White House lockdown was lifted a short time later. The FBI is assisting in the investigation alongside the Secret Service. No suspect information, motive, or official casualty details have been released by authorities as of this writing.
This marks the third notable security incident involving the Trump administration in recent weeks. On April 25, 2026, a gunman identified as Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of Torrance, California, attempted to breach security at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner at the Washington Hilton, leading to an exchange of gunfire. Allen faced charges including attempted assassination. On May 4, 2026, Secret Service agents exchanged fire with an armed man near the Washington Monument, wounding the suspect and grazing a bystander.
Update (7:24 p.m. ET): Additional details from law enforcement sources indicate the incident involved an armed suspect who approached a gate on the west side of the White House complex and fired approximately three shots toward the grounds. Secret Service agents returned fire, striking the suspect, who is reported to be in critical condition. A bystander on the street was also hit and seriously injured.
The suspect did not breach the White House perimeter. President Trump remained inside and unharmed. The brief lockdown included countersnipers on rooftops and staff securing positions, with journalists on the North Lawn moved to safety. The immediate threat ended quickly, and the lockdown was lifted.
The FBI and Secret Service continue to investigate. No motive or suspect identity has been publicly released. D.C. Fire and EMS treated two patients at the scene, consistent with reports of the suspect and bystander being wounded.
This incident is the latest in a series of security events near the White House in recent weeks.
Ongoing Developments
This is a rapidly evolving situation. Official statements from the Secret Service, White House, or Metropolitan Police Department are expected in the coming hours. Official updates are expected soon.
Update (8:46 p.m. ET):
