The individual responsible for the gunfire at a White House security checkpoint has been named as 21-year-old Nasire Best. Reports indicate he had a troubled past with mental illness, which had drawn the attention of local law enforcement and the Secret Service.
Before the shooting, Best had run-ins with security at the White House. Notably, he was previously instructed to maintain a distance from the premises following an incident in 2025, as detailed by the New York Post.
Information about Best’s life is limited at this point. A law enforcement source revealed he had a documented history of mental health struggles, reportedly claiming to be Jesus Christ.
Authorities are investigating these factors, reviewing his digital history and past interactions to understand his motives. Thus far, there are no indications that he had accomplices during the incident.
Details regarding Best’s occupation, education, family background, or personal life remain sparse. The FBI and Secret Service are scrutinizing his actions leading up to the shooting, including how he acquired the firearm and the nature of his previous encounters at security checkpoints.
🚨 BREAKING: The White House shooter has been identified as 21-year-old Nasire Best
“Best,” which is a misleading last name, had previously attempted to INFILTRATE the White House MULTIPLE times, per USSS
He’s now at the coroner’s office in a bag.
Good riddance. pic.twitter.com/8J25NHoVzZ
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) May 24, 2026
According to the Secret Service and White House officials, the shooting unfolded when Best approached the security post with a firearm in hand, displaying suspicious behavior that was quickly noted by agents.
During the chaos, ABC News’s Senior White House Correspondent Selina Wang was broadcasting a report when the gunfire erupted. In footage she shared, she was seen mid-sentence before the sounds of gunfire interrupted, prompting her team to seek shelter.
“While I was shooting a video from the White House North Lawn, the gunshots rang out. It sounded like a barrage. We were immediately advised to head to the press briefing room for safety,” Wang later shared on social media.
Best was able to fire several rounds before being struck by return fire and was subsequently rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
One individual nearby sustained serious injuries and was also taken to the hospital; further information about this person remains unavailable. Fortunately, no law enforcement personnel were harmed, and the president is reported safe. The White House confirmed that President Trump and key cabinet members are continuing their work amid ongoing discussions regarding the situation with Iran.
