FBI Director Confirms Shots Fired Near White House Grounds; Investigation Ongoing
WASHINGTON — FBI Director Kash Patel stated at 6:43 a.m. ET on May 24 that the FBI is on the scene and supporting the Secret Service in responding to shots fired near White House grounds. He said the agencies would update the public as they are able.
The incident occurred on the evening of May 23 near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, one block from the White House complex.
Journalists on the North Lawn reported hearing multiple gunshots, prompting Secret Service agents to direct them into the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room and implement a brief lockdown that was lifted around 6:46 p.m. ET.
Response Details The U.S. Secret Service stated it was “aware of reports of shots fired near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW and are working to corroborate the information with personnel on the ground.” President Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time. No injuries to protectees, staff, or bystanders have been officially confirmed.
Assessment: The FBI Director’s confirmation and the Secret Service’s acknowledgment establish that law enforcement treated the reported gunfire as a credible perimeter incident requiring immediate multi-agency response. The rapid movement of press personnel and brief lockdown reflect standard protocols for incidents in close proximity to the White House.
What to Watch
- Next official update from FBI Director Kash Patel or the Secret Service.
- Any statement from the Metropolitan Police Department or DOJ.
- Confirmation of shot count, suspect status, or whether live gunfire occurred.
