Gunfire Reported Near White House

Secret Service investigating overnight incident with no injuries or suspects located

Apr. 5, 2026 at 1:40pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Secret Service is investigating reports of gunfire near the White House in Washington, D.C. that occurred shortly after midnight on Sunday. No injuries were reported, and a search of the area did not locate any suspects. The incident took place in Lafayette Park, just north of the White House, while President Trump was hosting a family Easter dinner at the presidential residence.

Why it matters

Any security incident near the White House is taken extremely seriously by law enforcement due to the sensitive nature of the location and the need to protect the president and other officials. While this appears to have been an isolated incident, it highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by the Secret Service in safeguarding the White House complex.

The details

According to the Secret Service, officers responded to reports of gunfire in the vicinity of Lafayette Park around 12:20 AM on Sunday. A search of the park and surrounding area was conducted, but no suspects were found. Road closures were initially put in place but have since been lifted as the investigation continues. The Secret Service is now seeking a possible vehicle and person of interest, while coordinating with the U.S. Park Police and D.C. Metropolitan Police Department.

  • The incident occurred shortly after midnight on Sunday, April 5, 2026.
  • Road closures were in effect immediately following the incident but were lifted by 8 AM the same morning.

The players

Secret Service

The U.S. Secret Service is the federal law enforcement agency responsible for protecting the president, vice president, and other high-ranking officials, as well as securing the White House complex.

U.S. Park Police

A federal law enforcement agency that patrols and secures national parks and other federal lands, including Lafayette Park adjacent to the White House.

D.C. Metropolitan Police Department

The primary law enforcement agency for the District of Columbia, assisting federal agencies like the Secret Service with investigations and security in the nation's capital.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“No injuries were reported and a suspect was not located following a search of the area, the Secret Service said.”

— Secret Service

What’s next

The Secret Service continues to investigate the incident, seeking a possible vehicle and person of interest, while coordinating with other law enforcement agencies. Officials have encouraged members of the public with any information to contact the D.C. Police.

The takeaway

While the details remain unclear, this incident serves as a reminder of the heightened security measures in place around the White House and the vigilance required to protect the president and other senior officials. The quick response and investigation by the Secret Service and other law enforcement agencies helped to ensure the safety of those in the area.