A 21-year-old American man died after being shot by Secret Service agents on Saturday afternoon. The shooter died at a local hospital after approaching and opening fire directly at a strict security checkpoint. This violent armed confrontation occurred outside the White House, while President Donald Trump was inside the building.
Security authorities quickly identified the slain shooter as Nasire Best, a resident of Maryland. According to various official reports and different legal proceedings opened in the courts, the young man had severe mental health issues. Best had previously been arrested at major perimeter access points to the White House after causing several altercations.
The fatal shooting occurred after the young man stealthily drew a firearm hidden in a sports bag. According to different sources, the shooter began firing indiscriminately at the uniformed officers guarding the checkpoint. The agents reacted swiftly, returning fire and shooting the gunman, according to U.S. national media confirmations.
What is the medical and legal history of the young shooter?
The authorities responsible for guarding the presidential grounds in the capital were familiar with Nasire Best’s history. In June 2025, he was urgently taken to the Washington Psychiatric Institute for a thorough mental evaluation. At that time, Best blocked an entrance lane to the White House, shouting that he “was Jesus Christ”.
Just one month later, in July 2025, the young man again violated strict government security measures. He was officially arrested for entering a restricted area of the compound, completely ignoring direct orders to stop. Apparently, a local judge imposed a strict restraining order, which he violated repeatedly, and he failed to appear at his hearing.
Investigators recently discovered that Best had made several alarming statements published on his social media profiles. According to a CNN source, the young man falsely claimed to be the real Osama bin Laden. Additionally, he posted a message expressing his deep desire to cause direct physical harm to current Republican President Donald Trump.
How did journalists react?
The loud sound of rapid gunfire caused immense chaos among the various press workers present. Dozens of national and international reporters and their production teams were gathered peacefully in the well-known North Lawn. They were preparing their live broadcasts reporting on the possible ceasefire agreement reached between the United States and Iran.
Preliminary statement regarding the shooting incident on 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue. pic.twitter.com/NOdFKmwVuU
— U.S. Secret Service Office of Communications (@SecretSvcSpox) May 24, 2026
The shocking shooting unleashed scenes of chaos
