Secret Service Investigates Gunfire Reports Near White House
The U.S. Secret Service initiated an investigation on Sunday into reports of gunfire near Lafayette Park, situated directly north of the White House. Following a search of the park and surrounding areas after midnight, no injuries were reported, and no suspect was located. White House operations continued normally with heightened security, while initial road closures were lifted later that morning.
No injuries were reported, and no suspect was located following a search of Lafayette Park and surrounding areas after midnight. White House operations proceeded normally despite the incident.
Incident Overview
Reports of gunfire in the vicinity of Lafayette Park, located across from the White House, prompted a response from Secret Service officers shortly after midnight on Sunday. Lafayette Park has been undergoing renovations for several weeks and is currently fenced off.
A subsequent search of the park and surrounding areas found no injuries and did not locate a suspect.
President Donald Trump was present at the White House over the weekend, hosting a family Easter dinner. The White House did not provide an immediate comment on the incident. Despite the event, Secret Service confirmed that White House operations proceeded as normal, although a heightened security posture was implemented in the area.
Investigation Details
Initial road closures adjacent to Lafayette Park were put in place but were lifted after 8 a.m., according to Secret Service Chief of Communications Anthony Guglielmi.
The investigation remains active, with the Secret Service seeking a possible vehicle and a person of interest. The Secret Service is coordinating its efforts with the U.S. Park Police and Washington, D.C.'s Metropolitan Police Department, also referred to as the District of Columbia police.
Public Appeal
Authorities have encouraged members of the public with any relevant information to contact D.C. Police. Information can be provided by calling 202-727-9099 or by texting 50411.