A juvenile bystander was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries after gunfire erupted near the White House complex shortly after Vice President JD Vance departed the area.
The incident occurred near 15th Street and Independence Avenue in Washington, D.C., prompting a temporary lockdown of the White House compound. Secret Service Deputy Director Matthew C. Quinn confirmed personnel responded to an officer-involved shooting after encountering an armed individual.
What Happened
According to the Secret Service, the suspect fled on foot before allegedly firing at officers, who returned fire in response. Investigators recovered a weapon from the scene, and the suspect was transported to a hospital for treatment.
Officials stated there was no immediate indication that the White House or the vice president’s motorcade had been specifically targeted in the confrontation. The shooting occurred just over a week after another major security incident at a White House event.
The Recent Context
Federal prosecutors accused 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen from California of attempting to breach security at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner while President Donald Trump attended the event. Allen allegedly carried multiple weapons and attempted to force his way toward the ballroom before security personnel stopped him.
During a federal court appearance, Assistant U.S. Attorney Jocelyn Ballantine stated that Allen “attempted to assassinate the president of the United States.” Prosecutors requested he remain detained while the investigation continues, indicating additional charges may be filed.
Security Implications
Officials emphasized that armed confrontations near high-security government locations are treated with maximum urgency. “This is the kind of situation that we cannot tolerate,” one official said regarding broader security concerns surrounding recent threats in Washington.
This story has been updated. CNN’s National Security team contributed to this report.
