White House Shooter Nasire Best Had Prior Violent History, Trump Says

Nasire Best, 21, was shot dead outside the White House in Washington, DC on Saturday evening after opening fire on Secret Service agents, according to officials. Best believed he was Jesus Christ and had been flagged by the Secret Service for prior incidents, President Donald Trump revealed following the shooting. The White House was immediately placed into lockdown as Trump remained inside the building unharmed.

Best was spotted pacing back and forth along 17th Street Northwest moments before he drew a revolver, sources told the New York Post. He approached the Secret Service booth, retrieved a weapon from his bag, and opened fire on agents. Reporters stationed at the White House reported hearing up to 30 shots. An adult civilian sustained injuries during the shooting, though authorities said they were uncertain whether the individual was wounded by the suspect or caught in crossfire.

Trump's Statement on the Incident

Following the shooting, Trump posted on Truth Social: "Thank you to our great Secret Service and Law Enforcement for the swift and professional action taken this evening against a gunman near the White House, who had a violent history and possible obsession with our Country's most cherished structure. The gunman is dead after an exchange of gunfire with Secret Service Agents near the White House gates."

Trump added that the incident occurred "one month removed from the White House Correspondent Dinner shooting" and emphasized the importance of security measures for future presidents.

Prior Incidents with Secret Service

Best had previously been flagged by the Secret Service and had breached an earlier court directive ordering him to keep away from the White House premises, NBC reports.

On June 26, 2025, Best was apprehended by Secret Service after attempting to flag down agents and issuing threats. During this incident, Best obstructed an entry lane at the White House, declared he was 'God,' and was subsequently sent to the Psychiatric Institute of Washington for a mental assessment.

On July 10, 2025, Best was apprehended again for entering a restricted zone near the White House.