Probe underway after gunfire in White House area
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
- US Secret Service opens probe into overnight shooting near White House.
- No injuries reported as security alert level temporarily raised.
The US Secret Service has launched an investigation after gunfire was reported near the White House late Saturday night, prompting a heightened security response in central Washington.
In a statement issued Sunday, the agency said officers responded shortly after midnight to reports of shots fired near Lafayette Square, directly across from the White House.
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No injuries were reported, and officials confirmed that President Donald Trump, who was spending the weekend at the White House, was not harmed. Trump has not publicly commented on the incident.
Area secured, no suspects found
Authorities said the situation was quickly contained, with security teams sweeping the area and surrounding streets. Despite the response, no suspect has been identified so far.
The Secret Service noted that operations at the White House continued as normal, though a heightened security posture was briefly activated as a precaution.
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Nearby roads were initially closed following the incident, according to US media reports, before being reopened once the area was deemed secure.
Multi-agency investigation underway
The Secret Service said it is working alongside the Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia and the U.S. Park Police to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Anthony Guglielmi, chief of communications for the Secret Service, said in a social media post that restrictions around the area had been lifted after initial investigations.
Context of heightened tensions
The incident comes at a time of increased political and security tensions in Washington, though officials have not indicated any link between the gunfire and broader national developments.
Lafayette Square, a public park opposite the White House, has been partially closed in recent weeks due to renovation work, limiting access to the area.
