Gunman opens fire at security checkpoint near White House, shot dead

A gunman was shot and killed by Secret Service officers after opening fire near a White House checkpoint, resulting in a bystander injury and a temporary lockdown.

A suspect involved in a shooting near the White House was shot dead after opening fire on a US Secret Service checkpoint on Saturday night.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect approached the checkpoint, pulled a weapon out of his bag and began firing on officers. 

The Secret Service officers also opened fire and struck the suspect. He was taken to a hospital, where he died.

Suspect Identified as Nasire Best

The suspect, identified as Nasire Best, believed he was Jesus, The New York Post reported, citing court records.

One bystander was injured, the US Secret Service said. Authorities said US President Donald Trump was not "impacted".

Immediate Response and Investigation

The reported gunshots triggered a temporary lockdown and prompted a quick response from the Secret Service.

Earlier, the US Secret Service in its statement posted on X said, "Shortly after 6 p.m Saturday an individual in the area of 17th street and Pennsylvania Avenue pulled a weapon from his bag and began firing."

"Secret Service Police returned fire striking the suspect who was transported to an area hospital where he was pronounced deceased. During the shooting one bystander was also struck by gunfire. No injuries were sustained by officers. The President was in the White House during the incident, however no protectees or operations were impacted. This incident remains under investigation and additional information will be released as it becomes available," it further read.

Recent Incidents Near the White House

It was the third time in the past month that gunfire has broken out near the president following incidents at the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner in April and near the Washington Monument earlier in May.

With input from agencies