Gunfire Erupts Near White House, Two Injured in Exchange with Secret Service

Washington, D.C. — An exchange of gunfire near the White House on the evening of Saturday, March 8, 2025, left two people shot and prompted a temporary lockdown of the premises.

"An NBC News team reported hearing between 20 and 30 gunshots."

Incident Details

The incident occurred near the intersection of Pennsylvania Avenue and 17th Street Northwest. According to law enforcement officials, officers from the U.S. Secret Service's uniformed division responded to a report of an individual firing a weapon, leading to an exchange of gunfire between the suspect and Secret Service personnel.

An NBC News team on the scene reported hearing 20 to 30 gunshots around 6:04 p.m. ET. ABC News correspondent Selina Wang, who was recording a video at the time, captured audio of the gunfire, which she described as sounding like "dozens of gunshots."

Casualties and Injuries

At least two people were shot during the incident. One individual is believed to be the suspect and was reported to be in grave condition. The identity and status of the second injured person have not been confirmed. No Secret Service personnel have been reported injured.

Response and Lockdown

Following the gunfire, Secret Service agents evacuated members of the press corps from the North Lawn into the White House Press Briefing Room, where they were instructed to shelter in place. The White House North Lawn was cleared, and the area was placed under lockdown.

The lockdown was lifted at approximately 6:46 p.m. ET.

The Secret Service issued a statement acknowledging reports of shots fired near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, stating they were working to corroborate information with personnel on the ground. FBI Director Kash Patel stated on social media that the FBI is on scene and supporting the Secret Service response.

Location of Officials

U.S. President Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time of the incident. The presence of Vice President JD Vance at the time has not been confirmed.