A man, identified as Nasire Best, aged 21 and from Maryland, was fatally shot near the White House by law enforcement officers after he brandished a revolver and fired shots, reportedly believing himself to be Jesus Christ. The incident occurred at a White House security checkpoint on Saturday evening, according to the US Secret Service.
Following the shooting, the suspect was swiftly taken to a nearby hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. During the incident, a bystander sustained a gunshot wound, although it remains uncertain whether the injury was inflicted by the shooter or law enforcement.
Despite being present at the White House during the shooting, President Donald Trump remained unharmed and commended the swift and professional response of law enforcement and the Secret Service. The White House was briefly placed on lockdown as a precautionary measure after the gunfire was heard.
Reports suggest that Best had a troubled history and a possible fixation with important national landmarks. He had been frequenting official checkpoints and entry points, catching the attention of the Secret Service. Best had been living in Washington DC for approximately 18 months.
Prior to the fatal incident, Best had been involved in altercations with authorities, including being detained for blocking traffic near the White House and subsequently being committed to a psychiatric facility. His behavior drew attention when he trespassed at a restricted pedestrian control post, leading to his arrest for unlawful entry. Best, who claimed to be Jesus Christ, had also made threatening statements on social media.
Journalists at the White House at the time of the shooting were instructed to seek shelter after hearing gunshots. ABC News correspondent Selina Wang captured the tense moments on video, where she described hearing multiple gunshots and taking cover.
The shooting took place in close proximity to a previous attack where two members of the West Virginia National Guard were ambushed, resulting in one fatality and critical injuries. Rahmanullah Lakanwal was charged in connection with that incident.