SHOTS FIRED NEAR WHITE HOUSE; PRESS CORPS PLACED ON LOCKDOWN

Developing story. This article will be updated as additional information is confirmed by authorities.

Gunshots were reported near the White House on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at approximately 6 p.m. ET, at the corner of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW — just outside the White House complex.

CNN reporters on scene reported hearing what was described as dozens of gunshots. The U.S. Secret Service confirmed to CNN that it is investigating "reports of shots fired" at that location.

Members of the White House press pool stationed on the North Lawn were escorted into the White House briefing room. Reporters inside the White House were told to shelter in place. CNN reported that Secret Service agents were heard shouting "get down" and warning of "shots fired."

The White House has been placed on lockdown. It was not immediately clear whether there were any casualties. Authorities had not confirmed details regarding a potential suspect as of the time of publication.

Saturday's incident is the third reported security event near the White House in 2026. On April 25, gunfire was reported near the White House Correspondents' Dinner; Cole Tomas Allen, 31, was subsequently charged with attempting to kill Trump administration officials. On May 4, Secret Service agents exchanged fire with a gunman near the Washington Monument; the suspect, identified as Michael Marx, 45, of Texas, was later charged in connection with that incident.

Mission Offline will update this article as more information is confirmed by authorities.

Sources: CNN, Fox 5 DC | Published: May 23, 2026