In a tense encounter near the White House, Secret Service officers fatally shot an individual who fired at them on Saturday. The incident occurred shortly before 6 p.m. ET, when the suspect approached a security checkpoint and opened fire, according to a Secret Service spokesperson.
The officers returned fire, hitting the suspect, who later died at a local hospital. A bystander was also struck by gunfire and is in critical condition, though it remains unclear whether the bystander was hit by the suspect’s initial shots or during the exchange of gunfire.
President Donald Trump was in the White House residence at the time and was unaffected by the incident. He was briefed on the situation by the Secret Service and later expressed gratitude to the agency and law enforcement for their swift response.
Suspect’s Background
The suspect has been identified as 21-year-old Nasire Best. Sources indicate that Best had previous encounters with the Secret Service, including an incident in June 2025 when he blocked an entry lane at the White House and claimed to be “God.” He was detained and committed for a mental evaluation at that time.
In July 2025, Best was arrested again for attempting to enter a White House complex driveway, leading to a judge’s order for him to stay away from the grounds. Investigators found that Best had made various concerning statements on social media, including claims of being “the real” Osama bin Laden and expressing a desire to harm President Trump.
Security Measures and Response
The incident prompted a lockdown of the White House grounds, with journalists and staff being directed to shelter in place. Secret Service agents, some carrying rifles, were seen securing the area. The lockdown was lifted after approximately 40 minutes.
This event highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by the Secret Service in protecting the White House and its occupants. President Trump emphasized the importance of maintaining a secure environment for future Presidents, citing national security concerns.
Authorities recovered a 9 mm pistol believed to have been used by the suspect. The FBI is supporting the Secret Service in the investigation.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
