A 21-year-old man who allegedly identified himself as “Jesus Christ” was shot dead by United States Secret Service personnel after opening fire near a White House security checkpoint, triggering a lockdown and a major security response in Washington.
The suspect was identified by multiple US media reports as Nasire Best, a resident of Maryland. According to the US Secret Service, the shooting occurred Saturday evening near the checkpoint at 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue close to the White House complex.
Officials said the suspect approached the checkpoint carrying a bag and allegedly pulled out a firearm before firing toward posted officers.
Secret Service personnel returned fire during the exchange, critically injuring the suspect, who was later pronounced dead at a hospital.
A bystander was also injured during the incident, though authorities said it remained unclear whether the injury resulted from the suspect’s gunfire or the exchange with officers. No Secret Service personnel were reported injured.
The White House complex was briefly placed under lockdown following the shooting, with journalists and staff instructed to shelter in place while law enforcement secured the area.
US media reported that Best was previously known to authorities and had prior encounters involving White House security restrictions. Reports said he had earlier claimed to be “Jesus Christ” or “God” and had been subject to a stay-away order after previous attempts to approach White House premises.
President Donald Trump was reportedly inside the White House at the time of the incident but was not harmed. He later praised the Secret Service response and described the suspect as having a violent background and possible obsession with the White House.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Secret Service have launched an investigation into the shooting and the suspect’s motives.
The incident has renewed concerns over presidential security and comes amid heightened scrutiny following recent security-related incidents near high-profile political events in Washington.
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