The US Secret Service is investigating reports of gunfire near the White House early on Sunday morning, according to the BBC. The incident occurred just after midnight local time (04:00 GMT) in the area around Washington DC’s Lafayette Park, which is located just north of the president’s residence.
Investigation Details
According to the agency. Officers responded to the reports and conducted a search of the park and the surrounding area — no suspect was located, and no injuries were reported, the Secret Service said. The agency and its partners are currently looking for a possible vehicle and person of interest.
Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi confirmed that some roads in the area were closed during the investigation but have since reopened, while he made this statement in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.
A representative for the Secret Service confirmed to the BBC on Sunday evening that the investigation continues — the White House did not respond to the BBC’s request for comment.
Trump’s Presence in Washington
President Donald Trump was in Washington DC this weekend, according to the Secret Service; the agency said that operations at the White House remain normal, but a heightened security posture is in place.
The president remained in the capital this weekend rather than flying to his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, where he often spends his weekends; White House communications director Steven Cheung said on Saturday that Trump ‘has been working nonstop in the White House and Oval Office’ this Easter weekend.
CBS News, the BBC’s US media partner, reported that Trump is slated to host a family Easter dinner at the White House on Sunday.
Continuing Security Measures
The Secret Service has not yet identified any suspects or vehicles related to the incident, while According to the agency, the investigation is ongoing, and they are working with their partners to gather more information.
Secret Service officials have not provided any additional details about the nature of the gunfire or the potential threat level — the agency said that a heightened security posture remains in place at the White House.
The incident comes at a time when the Secret Service is already under increased scrutiny following several high-profile security lapses in recent years. The agency has faced criticism for its handling of various threats and incidents involving the president and other high-profile individuals.
As of Sunday evening, the investigation was still ongoing, and no further details were expected to be released until more information is gathered. The Secret Service confirmed that they are treating the incident seriously and are working to ensure the safety of the White House and its visitors.
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