WASHINGTON, D.C. May 23, 2026 — The White House was placed under lockdown Saturday evening after multiple reports of gunshots fired in the vicinity, with President Donald Trump confirmed to be inside the residence at the time.
DC News Now anchor Chris Flanagan reported live from the scene, stating: “We’re on lockdown. President Trump is at the White House.” He shared shaky handheld video footage showing security personnel moving across a grassy area with temporary structures, bright lights, and activity viewed from behind a fence. The clip captures what appear to be emergency response measures in progress.
Eyewitness and media accounts describe hearing 20 to 30 shots near the North Lawn area and 17th Street/Pennsylvania Avenue. Journalists on site, including from ABC and NBC, were quickly moved to the secure James S. Brady Press Briefing Room as a precaution. No immediate reports of injuries to White House staff, press, or the President have been confirmed.
The Secret Service has not yet issued an official statement on the incident’s cause, the identity of any suspect, or whether it involved an attempted breach. The lockdown appears temporary as authorities investigate.
This marks another security incident in a year that has already seen heightened threats around high-profile events involving President Trump. Details remain fluid as law enforcement continues to respond.
Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Stay tuned to verified sources for developments.
About The Author
