Tension erupted around the White House on Saturday evening after reports of gunshots sparked a massive security response involving the FBI, Secret Service and police officers.
According to reports, security agents quickly sealed off areas surrounding the White House while heavily armed personnel flooded the scene after shots were allegedly fired near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C.
US President Donald Trump was reportedly inside the White House at the time, where he was said to be engaged in discussions related to ongoing negotiations with Iran.
Journalists present at the White House described moments of panic as security officials ordered members of the press to run for safety.
ABC News correspondent Selina Wang shared footage showing reporters taking cover while loud bangs echoed around the White House grounds.
“We were told to sprint to the press briefing room,” she wrote on X.
According to CNN, two people were reportedly shot and injured during an encounter involving Secret Service officers responding to reports of an armed individual near the area.
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that federal agents were on the scene assisting the Secret Service as investigations continued.
Authorities have not yet confirmed where the shots originated from or whether there is still an active threat in the area.
The incident has sparked widespread concern online, especially as it comes only weeks after another security scare near the White House involving an armed suspect accused of attempting to attack President Trump.
Security agencies say more updates will be provided as investigations continue.
Source: AFP, BBC, CNN
