Gunman Shot Dead Near White House After Opening Fire, Bystander Injured

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

A gunman opened fire near the White House on Saturday evening, prompting a swift response from the US Secret Service, who fatally shot the suspect during an exchange of gunfire that also left a bystander injured.

According to authorities, the incident occurred shortly after 6:00 pm local time (2200 GMT) when the armed man reportedly pulled a weapon from his bag and began shooting close to the White House security perimeter.

US President Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time, where he was said to be engaged in discussions aimed at negotiating a deal with Iran. Officials confirmed that the president was not harmed during the incident.

In a statement, Secret Service communications chief Anthony Guglielmi said agents responded immediately to the threat, leading to a gun battle in which the suspect was killed.

Several US media outlets identified the gunman as 21-year-old Nasire Best from Maryland. Reports also indicated that Best allegedly had a history of mental health concerns and had previously interacted with Secret Service personnel on multiple occasions.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the motive behind the shooting, while the injured bystander is receiving medical treatment.