Things took a chaotic turn near the White House Saturday evening when Nasire Best became the center of a security scare. Unfortunately, things ended in gunfire, lockdowns, and a stunned press corps watching it all unfold in real time. What started as unusual pacing outside one of the country’s most heavily guarded areas quickly escalated into rapid federal response.
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Gunfire Erupts Outside White House Security Checkpoint
According to sources, 21-year-old Nasire Best was seen acting erratically along 17th Street NW before allegedly pulling a gun and firing toward a security checkpoint around 6:10 p.m. The exchange was brief but intense, with federal officers returning fire almost immediately. Authorities say gunfire struck and killed Best on the scene and injured at least one bystander during the exchange.
The Secret Service moved quickly to lock down the White House complex, ordering reporters and staff into secure areas as the situation developed. The FBI later confirmed it was assisting on the scene as investigators worked to piece together what led up to the incident. Witnesses in the press heard rapid gunfire and took shelter inside as security protocols activated.
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Officials React As Investigation Into Best Continues
Officials and lawmakers later weighed in, with both sides of the aisle condemning political violence while praising law enforcement’s response. Early reports also noted Best had prior encounters with authorities and had been under a court order restricting access to White House areas. President Trump and others issued statements thanking federal agents for their quick action as investigators continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the shooting. FBI Director Kash Patel took to X saying, “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“
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
— FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) May 23, 2026
Best’s Prior Encounters And Mental Health Under Review
Authorities are uncovering additional background details as investigators review Nasire Best’s past encounters with law enforcement. He previously claimed he was “Jesus Christ” and said he wanted to be arrested, according to reports.
Officials noted that he had been involuntarily committed earlier this year and had multiple prior incidents involving restricted White House perimeter access. Authorities are also questioning how he managed to return to the area despite a standing order to stay away. Investigators are reviewing whether his mental health history and prior violations contributed to Saturday’s escalation. Meanwhile, the motive remains unconfirmed.
