The suspect involved in the shooting near the White House reportedly claimed online that he was the “real” Osama bin Laden and had allegedly posted threats directed at US President Donald Trump before the incident, according to multiple US media reports.
The shooting triggered a temporary lockdown at the White House and intensified concerns over presidential security in Washington.
Suspect Reportedly Known to Secret Service
The alleged gunman, identified in reports as 21-year-old Nasire Best, was shot dead by the United States Secret Service after opening fire near a White House security checkpoint.
Authorities have not officially confirmed the suspect’s identity, but reports stated that he had previously come to the attention of law enforcement agencies after multiple encounters near the White House complex.
According to court records cited by US media outlets, Best had allegedly wandered around the White House perimeter several times and questioned officers about ways to gain entry into restricted areas.
Online Posts Raised Red Flags
Investigators reviewing the suspect’s online activity reportedly found disturbing posts in which he referred to himself as the “real” Osama bin Laden.
Officials also allegedly discovered at least one post indicating hostility toward Trump.
Reports further claimed that the suspect had previously described himself as “God” and “Jesus Christ” during prior encounters with authorities.
Mental Health Concerns Previously Reported
According to reports, the suspect underwent a mental health evaluation in 2025 after allegedly blocking traffic near the White House.
Court documents reportedly showed that a judge later ordered him to stay away from the White House complex after another incident involving restricted areas.
Authorities stated that although the suspect had previously behaved erratically, he had not earlier been linked to violent attacks or possession of weapons.
How the White House Shooting Unfolded
The shooting reportedly occurred shortly after 6 pm local time near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW in Washington.
Witnesses said the suspect had been pacing near the White House security perimeter before approaching a checkpoint.
According to reports:
- The suspect allegedly fired multiple shots from a revolver
- Secret Service officers immediately returned fire
- One bystander was reportedly injured
- No Secret Service personnel were harmed
The suspect later died at a nearby hospital after sustaining gunshot wounds during the exchange.
White House Briefly Locked Down
The White House complex was placed under temporary lockdown following the shooting.
Journalists and staff inside the complex were reportedly moved to secure locations after gunfire erupted outside the gates.
Trump was inside the White House at the time of the incident but was not harmed, officials confirmed.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and local police agencies are assisting in the ongoing investigation.
Trump Praises Secret Service
Following the incident, Trump thanked the Secret Service and law enforcement officials for their response.
In a statement, the President described the suspect as having a “violent history” and a “possible obsession” with the White House.
The shooting has once again renewed debate around presidential security and public safety near major government buildings in Washington.
