Shots were fired near the northwestern corner of the White House complex while President Trump was inside. The Secret Service returned fire, resulting in the death of the gunman.
Secret Service officials reported that a bystander was hit by gunfire, though no details were provided on the person’s identity or the severity of the injuries. No officers were wounded in the incident.
President Trump, who was present in the White House, expressed gratitude towards the Secret Service and law enforcement for their quick response. He described the shooter as having ‘a violent history’ and ‘a possible obsession’ with the White House.
Details of the Incident
The latest shooting occurred on a Saturday evening. A gunman approached the White House complex, retrieved a gun from a bag, and started shooting. Secret Service officers responded swiftly, shooting and fatally wounding the attacker.
Law enforcement authorities later identified the gunman as Nasire Best, age 21. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was declared dead.
Shooter’s Background
In July of the previous year, Mr. Best was arrested for entering a restricted area on the White House grounds, ignoring clear signage and orders to stop. According to an affidavit filed in D.C. Superior Court, he was known to the Secret Service since he frequently walked around the White House, asking how to gain entry at various points.
Mr. Best had also been involuntarily detained in June after blocking a vehicle entry on the east side of the White House. During that arrest on a misdemeanor charge of unlawful entry, he claimed to officers that he was Jesus Christ and wanted to be arrested. At that time, he had no outstanding warrants.
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