Additional Coverage:
- Gunshots near White House as press told to flee to briefing room (themirror.com)
The White House was placed on lockdown Saturday after multiple gunshots were reportedly fired nearby, prompting Secret Service agents to quickly escort journalists inside for safety, according to reporters present at the scene.
Journalists gathered on the North Lawn heard several shots before being instructed by Secret Service personnel to immediately move indoors to the press briefing room. ABC Senior White House Correspondent Selina Wang, who was on site, described hearing what sounded like dozens of gunshots while recording a segment. She shared footage on social media and wrote that they were told to “sprint to the press briefing room” for shelter.
Chris Flanagan, a reporter inside the White House complex, posted video confirming the lockdown and noted that then-President Donald Trump was at the residence during the incident. Julia Benbrook, another journalist covering the event, said that approximately 20 to 30 members of the media were guided inside by Secret Service agents following the sounds of gunfire.
Initial reports indicated shots were fired in the vicinity of the White House, though authorities had not immediately released information about the source of the gunfire or whether there were any injuries. The Secret Service and Metropolitan Police Department remained tight-lipped as the situation unfolded.
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed on social media that federal agents were on site assisting the Secret Service with the investigation. “FBI is on the scene and supporting Secret Service responding to shots fired near White House grounds – we will update the public as we’re able,” Patel stated.
NBC News correspondent Julie Tsirkin also reported that the Secret Service confirmed the gunfire and ordered all media to shelter in place inside the briefing room. Law enforcement officers were seen moving around the North Lawn as the lockdown continued.
Officials have yet to provide further details, and the investigation remains active. Updates will be shared as more information becomes available.
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- Gunshots near White House as press told to flee to briefing room (themirror.com)