Washington, D.C. – May 24, 2026: A gunman who opened fire at a U.S. Secret Service checkpoint near the White House on Saturday evening has been identified as Nasire Best (also reported as Nesire or Naseer Best), a 21-year-old man from Maryland, according to law enforcement sources cited by NBC News and other outlets.

The incident occurred shortly after 6:00 p.m. ET near the intersection of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, close to the Eisenhower Executive Office Building. Authorities say Best approached the security checkpoint, pulled a weapon from a bag, and began firing at officers. Secret Service agents returned fire, striking the suspect. He was transported to George Washington University Hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

A bystander was also wounded in the exchange of gunfire. No Secret Service personnel were injured. President Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time and remained safe. The White House was briefly placed on lockdown before it was lifted.

Background on the Suspect

Law enforcement sources describe Best as an emotionally disturbed individual with a prior history of encounters near White House security checkpoints. Reports indicate he had been issued a "stay-away order" in the past and was known to loiter around entry points. Investigators have also noted that Best reportedly believed he was the modern-day incarnation of Jesus Christ, suggesting the incident may be linked to mental health issues rather than a political or terrorist motive. The FBI and Secret Service continue to investigate.

The New York Post (NYP) has shared images of the suspected shooter, as referenced in your query.

This marks another security incident near the White House complex in recent months. Officials praised the rapid response of the Secret Service in neutralizing the threat.