The White House was placed on lockdown on Saturday, May 23, after reports of 20 to 30 gunshots being heard in the vicinity. President Donald Trump was reportedly inside the complex at the time of the incident.
Secret Service and Snipers Deployed
Social media reports indicated that Secret Service agents and snipers were positioned on the roof and grounds of the presidential residence around 6 p.m. local time. Witnesses described a heavy security presence as authorities investigated the situation.
FBI Confirms Response
Shortly after the initial reports, FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that law enforcement was on the scene. "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," Patel wrote on X.
Secret Service Statement
The Secret Service also posted on X, stating it was "aware of reports of shots fired near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW"—just one block from the White House—and was "working to corroborate the information with personnel on the ground."
Authorities have not yet provided further details about the source of the gunfire or any potential suspects. The lockdown remains in effect as the investigation continues.
