Sunday, May 24, 2026- Authorities have identified the gunman killed by Secret Service agents outside the White House as 21-year-old Nasire Best, after he opened fire near a security checkpoint in a late-night attack that triggered a full lockdown of the complex.
Officials say Best approached the perimeter armed with a handgun and began shooting toward officers before being fatally shot in the exchange. One bystander was injured during the incident and remains under medical care, according to law enforcement sources.
Investigators now believe Best may have been suffering from severe mental health delusions at the time of the attack, including claims that he was “Jesus” and had a divine mission.
Law enforcement officials say his online activity and prior encounters with police suggest a history of escalating instability and fixation on religious themes. Authorities are reviewing his background, digital footprint, and any recent interactions that may help explain what led to the violent confrontation outside one of the most heavily secured buildings in the world.
The incident has reignited concerns about security around the White House and the challenges posed by individuals experiencing acute mental health crises. Federal agencies, including the FBI, are continuing to investigate the motive while also reviewing whether earlier warning signs were missed.
Officials say the Secret Service response likely prevented a larger breach of the complex, but questions remain about how the suspect was able to get so close to the perimeter with a firearm.
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