politics
Suspect in White House Shooting Previously Tried to Enter Grounds
A 21-year-old man identified as Nasire Best of Dundalk, Maryland, was killed after firing at a Secret Service checkpoint near the White House on Saturday. Court records show Best had prior encounters with agents and an active bench warrant.
May 26, 6:40 PM·1m read1 source
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U.S. Secret Service checkpoint near the White House. Best pulled the weapon from a messenger bag and emptied its magazine before officers returned fire, according to law enforcement sources cited by CBS News. A bystander was wounded in the exchange and underwent surgery Saturday night; the victim remains in serious but stable condition.
Court documents obtained by CBS News show Best blocked a White House entry lane in June 2025, told agents he was Jesus Christ and wanted to be arrested, and was sent for a mental evaluation. He attempted to enter the area again in July 2025 and was arrested on a charge of unlawfully entering federally controlled property.
A judge ordered Best to stay away from the White House. -only bench warrant.
The handgun used was described by two law enforcement sources as a specialized weapon obtained illegally on the streets of Baltimore. Ballistics evidence is being processed. U.S. C. will examine whether evidence supports federal civil-rights or local criminal charges.
Secret Service Director Sean M. Curran said in a Sunday statement that no officers were injured and expressed hope for the bystander's recovery.
