Secret Service Shoots Suspect Near Washington Monument

The U.S. Secret Service shot a suspect near the Washington Monument on Monday after officers observed him carrying a gun and acting suspiciously, according to UPI, The Guardian, and Reuters. The incident resulted in an exchange of gunfire that injured both the suspect and a nearby child. Both were hospitalized, with the child's injuries described as non-life-threatening.

The shooting occurred shortly after Vice President JD Vance’s motorcade passed through the area, though there is no indication that the suspect intended to approach the motorcade, per Reuters. The Secret Service deputy director, Matthew Quinn, stated that officers first identified the individual as suspicious and called for backup. When uniformed agents approached, the suspect fled on foot, drew his gun, and fired at them.

The incident led to a brief lockdown at the White House, where President Donald Trump was holding a small business event. The Secret Service ushered journalists who were outside into the briefing room, and Trump continued his event without interruption, as reported by The Guardian. Streets near the monument were blocked off, and members of the White House Press Pool were evacuated during the incident.

Law enforcement officials have been on alert in recent days following a shooting at the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner late last month. Quinn declined to comment on whether the incident was directed at President Trump but stated that investigations are ongoing to determine any potential links, according to UPI. The Secret Service and the Metropolitan Police Department are conducting separate investigations into the shooting.