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White House shooting prompts lockdown and evacuations; first details
A shooting near the White House on May 4, 2026 prompted a lockdown of parts of the area and evacuations. The Secret Service said an officer-involved shooting occurred at 15th Street and Independence Avenue; one person was shot and the status of that person was not immediately known, while outlets reported additional details from various sources.
Why It Matters
The incident involves security and safety around the White House and a live response by federal authorities, with information unfolding through multiple outlets as officials assess threat and impacts on presidential events.
Timeline
5 Events
Report of evacuation from White House north lawn
May 4, 2026
CNBC photographer Megan Cassella reported that the Secret Service evacuated reporters from their camera position on the White House north lawn, with no further explanation provided at the time.
Additional outlet reports on gunfire near White House
May 4, 2026
Newsmax's James Rosen said gunshots were fired near the White House complex at 15th and Independence, and that the Secret Service was placing the press office and other locations under lockdown.
RealClearPolitics reports details from Susan Crabtree
May 4, 2026
Susan Crabtree reported that Uniformed Division officers shot a man at the White House who they believed might have been armed. She said the suspect was down, in custody, and recovering at George Washington Hospital, and that the firearm had been recovered; she noted no Uniformed Division officers were shot.
Secret Service confirms officers on scene; area under lockdown
May 4, 2026
The US Secret Service stated that personnel were on the scene of an officer-involved shooting at the 15th Street and Independence Avenue area and that one person was shot; the area remained under lockdown as responders worked.
Initial reports of shooting near White House prompt area lockdown
May 4, 2026
The US Secret Service reported an officer-involved shooting at 15th Street and Independence Avenue in Washington, D.C. One individual was shot by law enforcement; their condition was not specified. Authorities urged avoidance of the area as emergency crews responded.