A gunman who opened fire outside the White House on Saturday before being shot by federal agents was already known to the U.S. Secret Service, according to court records. The 21-year-old suspect, identified in media reports as Nasire Best, was taken to a nearby hospital and later pronounced dead. He had previously attempted to enter the White House complex, as detailed in an affidavit filed in D.C. Superior Court in 2025 following an earlier arrest.
Incident Details
The White House was briefly locked down shortly after 6 p.m. on Saturday when the suspect approached a checkpoint near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW. He pulled a pistol from a bag and opened fire, the Secret Service reported. Officers returned fire, striking the suspect. A bystander was also hit during the exchange, though it remains unclear whether the wound came from the suspect or from law enforcement. No agents were injured.
Trump Responds
President Donald Trump, who was inside the White House at the time, described the gunman as having a violent history and a possible obsession with the White House. On social media, Trump praised the swift and professional actions of law enforcement officials.
Suspect's History
According to a July 2025 court filing, Best was known to the Secret Service for repeatedly walking around the White House complex and inquiring about how to gain access at various entry points. He was involuntarily committed on June 26, 2025, for obstructing vehicle entry to part of the complex. On July 10 of that year, he was arrested for unlawful entry after ignoring warning signs and walking into a restricted area outside the White House. During that incident, Best claimed to be Jesus and stated that he wanted to be arrested. A judge issued a stay-away order, barring him from the White House area, but a bench warrant was later issued after Best failed to attend a subsequent hearing.
Ongoing Investigation
The FBI is assisting the Secret Service and local police in the investigation. The incident comes a month after a shooting at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner in Washington. Trump linked the event to his controversial ballroom plans, emphasizing the need for a secure space for future presidents.
