A bystander remained in serious but stable condition Sunday after being struck by gunfire during a deadly shooting near a White House security checkpoint that left a suspected gunman dead following an exchange with U.S. Secret Service officers.
Authorities identified the suspect as 21-year-old Nasire Best of Dundalk, Maryland. According to officials, Best allegedly opened fire toward a White House checkpoint Saturday evening before Secret Service officers returned fire. He was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.
The identity of the injured bystander has not been released. Officials said the victim suffered a gunshot wound that was not considered life-threatening, though investigators have not clarified whether the individual was struck by the suspect or during the return fire by federal agents.
President Donald Trump was reportedly inside the White House at the time of the shooting.
Third Security Incident Near Trump in Recent Weeks
The shooting marks the third major armed incident near President Trump in less than a month, intensifying concerns about security around the White House and federal landmarks in Washington, D.C.
Earlier this month, Secret Service officers shot and wounded a man who allegedly opened fire near the Washington Monument. In April, another armed individual reportedly forced his way into the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner carrying weapons.
Following Saturday’s incident, Trump posted a statement on Truth Social suggesting the suspect may have had an “obsession” with the White House. The president also referenced ongoing efforts to secure congressional funding for expanded security upgrades around the presidential complex.
Trump has requested approximately $1 billion for new security enhancements, including the construction of a large ballroom and additional protective infrastructure on White House grounds.
Previous Arrest Near White House
Court records indicate Best previously encountered law enforcement near the White House last year.
According to reports, he was arrested in July 2025 after allegedly attempting to enter restricted White House grounds at another checkpoint. During that incident, officials said Best ignored commands from officers, claimed to be Jesus Christ, and requested to be arrested.
Authorities have not yet released additional information regarding a possible motive behind Saturday’s shooting.
Investigation Continues
The Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Secret Service continue investigating the incident. Crime scene investigators remained outside the White House complex Sunday examining bullet impacts and collecting evidence from the scene.
The shooting once again highlights growing concerns over security threats targeting high-profile government locations in the nation’s capital as political tensions remain elevated nationwide.
