Gunman Opens Fire Near White House — Secret Service Kills Suspect in Chaotic Shootout

Washington, D.C. — May 24, 2026 — Chaos erupted outside the White House Saturday evening when a 21-year-old man approached a Secret Service security checkpoint, pulled a gun from his bag, and opened fire on officers.

The suspect, identified as Nasire Best (also reported as Nazir or Nasir Best) of Maryland, was fatally shot by Secret Service agents. He was transported to a hospital where he was pronounced dead. One bystander was wounded in the exchange and remains in serious condition. No Secret Service officers were injured.

Video footage from the scene shows reporters on the North Lawn scrambling for cover as dozens of shots rang out. ABC News correspondent Selina Wang was filming when the gunfire began and captured the terrifying moment journalists were rushed into the press briefing room for safety.

Shooting suspect Nasire Best, age 21 - Credit: People.com

Who Was Nasire Best?

According to multiple sources, Best had a documented history of mental health issues and prior encounters with the Secret Service. In July 2025, he was arrested near the White House after trying to gain entry and was sent to a psychiatric ward. He had been issued a “stay-away order” but apparently violated it. Some reports indicate he had been living in the D.C. area for about 18 months and, in certain online references, expressed delusional beliefs.

Scene After the Shooting

Suspect dead and one bystander wounded - Credit: opb.org

Police and evidence technicians work the scene near the checkpoint - Credit houstonpublicmedia.org

Unfiltered Take

This is yet another disturbing incident highlighting ongoing security challenges around the White House and the persistent threat posed by disturbed individuals with access to firearms. While the Secret Service responded swiftly and effectively — preventing what could have been far worse — the fact that a known individual with prior incidents was able to get close enough to open fire raises serious questions about perimeter security and mental health intervention failures.

President Trump and all White House staff remained safe, but this event serves as a stark reminder that threats to our leadership and institutions are very real.

Investigations by the Secret Service, FBI, and D.C. Metro Police are ongoing into Best’s full background and motive.

Stay tuned to Shasta Unfiltered for updates as more details emerge.

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