A gunman who opened fire onSecret Service agentsat a checkpoint near the White House has died after being shot by US officers. Investigators revealed the suspect was already known to Washington DC police and federal authorities.
The incident sparked panic around the presidential complex on Saturday evening and raised fresh concerns about security threats in the US capital.
According to officials, the shooting happened at a security checkpoint near the North Lawn of the White House.
Witnesses reported hearing several rapid gunshots before armed agents rushed towards the scene. Roads around Pennsylvania Avenue were immediately sealed off as emergency crews and heavily armed officers flooded the area.
US President Donald Trumpwas reportedly inside the White House at the time but was not harmed during the incident. Members of the press inside the complex were temporarily ordered to shelter in secure areas while authorities assessed the threat.
American media reports stated that the suspected gunman had several prior encounters with law enforcement and had allegedly been flagged because of concerns surrounding erratic behaviour.
Sources speaking to US media said the man had previously been seen near restricted areas surrounding the White House and had drawn the attention of officers during earlier incidents.
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The suspect, identified as Nasire Best, was a 21-year-old man known to have a history of severe mental health problems. Investigators are now looking into whether warning signs may have been overlooked and whether further preventative action could have stopped the shooting.
Shortly after 6pm, officers observed Best pacing along 17th Street NW. He then allegedly pulled a revolver from a bag and opened fire on officers positioned along the security perimeter. Secret Service agents immediately responded, fatally shooting him.
Source: International Business Times UK
