FBI Director Confirms Shots Fired Near White House Grounds, Investigation Ongoing
Journalists on the North Lawn stated that Secret Service agents immediately directed them into the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room for safety.
WASHINGTON — FBI Director Kash Patel stated at 6:43 a.m. ET on May 24 that the FBI is on the scene and supporting the Secret Service in responding to shots fired near White House grounds. He said the agencies would update the public as they are able.
The incident occurred on the evening of May 23 near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, one block from the White House complex. Journalists on the North Lawn reported hearing multiple gunshots, prompting Secret Service agents to direct them into the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room and implement a brief lock-down that was lifted around 6:46 p.m. ET.
Response Details
The U.S. Secret Service stated it was “aware of reports of shots fired near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW and are working to corroborate the information with personnel on the ground.” President Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time. No injuries to protectees, staff, or bystanders have been officially confirmed.
Assessment: The FBI Director’s confirmation and the Secret Service’s acknowledgment establish that law enforcement treated the reported gunfire as a credible perimeter incident requiring immediate multi-agency response.
The rapid movement of press personnel and brief lockdown reflect standard protocols for incidents in close proximity to the White House.
What to Watch
Next official update from FBI Director Kash Patel or the Secret Service.
Any statement from the Metropolitan Police Department or DOJ.
Confirmation of shot count, suspect status, or whether live gunfire occurred.
Official Statements
FBI Director Kash Patel, May 24, 2026: “FBI is on the scene and supporting Secret Service responding to shots fired near White House grounds - we will update the public as we’re able.”
U.S. Secret Service, May 23, 2026: “We are aware of reports of shots fired near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW and are working to corroborate the information with personnel on the ground.”
Intelligence Gaps
Official determination of whether injuries occurred.
Identity or status of any suspect and motive.
Exact number of shots and whether live ammunition was confirmed. Resolution: Official FBI or Secret Service statement release, expected within 24-72 hours.
Fact-Check Summary
Shots fired near White House grounds: Verified by FBI Director Kash Patel.
FBI supporting Secret Service on scene: Verified by Director Patel.
Location near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW: Consistent with Secret Service statement.
No injuries to protectees or staff: Consistent across reporting; no official contradiction.
Brief lock-down of press area: Verified by on-scene accounts and standard protocol.