Secret Service Neutralizes Gunman Near White House After Shootout Injures Child

WASHINGTON — A gunman opened fire near the White House on May 4, 2026, leading to a brief lockdown as Secret Service agents engaged and neutralized the suspect. A child was struck by gunfire during the exchange.

The incident occurred in the afternoon near the Washington Monument on the National Mall. Plainclothes Secret Service agents spotted a man carrying a firearm, pursued him, and contacted uniformed officers. The suspect opened fire on the agents, who returned fire. The man was shot and transported to a hospital. His condition has not been publicly released.

A juvenile bystander was also struck by a bullet believed to have been fired by the suspect. The child’s injuries are not life-threatening, and he is receiving treatment at a local hospital.

President Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time hosting a small business summit in the East Room. The White House was briefly locked down as a precaution, with reporters on the North Lawn moved inside. Trump continued with the scheduled event without addressing the shooting.

The Secret Service and FBI are leading the investigation. The suspect’s identity and motive have not been publicly released. No terrorism link has been announced.

This is the second recent security incident involving gunfire near a major Washington event. The earlier April 25 shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner prompted heightened protective measures around the president and key locations.

The investigation remains active as authorities review video evidence and witness statements.