Secret Service agent assigned to Jill Biden shot himself in the buttocks: report

The incident is being investigated by the Secret Service's office of professional responsibility.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 5:23am

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A Secret Service agent who was guarding former First Lady Jill Biden at Philadelphia International Airport accidentally shot himself in the buttocks last week, according to a report. The agent's non-life-threatening injury was initially described as a leg wound, but a reporter later revealed the agent had shot himself in the 'butt cheek' while trying to holster his gun.

Why it matters

This incident raises questions about the training and protocols of Secret Service agents, who are tasked with protecting high-profile political figures like the former First Lady. It also highlights the potential risks and hazards that can arise when firearms are present in sensitive situations.

The details

According to the report, the agent's gun went off while he was in an unmarked Chevrolet SUV at the Philadelphia airport. The agent was not seriously injured, and Jill Biden was not present at the time of the incident. The Secret Service is investigating the matter through its Office of Professional Responsibility, but has declined to provide further details to avoid compromising future interviews.

  • The incident occurred on Friday, March 28, 2026 at the Philadelphia International Airport.

The players

Jill Biden

The former First Lady of the United States, who was the intended protectee of the Secret Service agent involved in the incident.

Secret Service

The U.S. federal law enforcement agency responsible for protecting high-profile political figures, including the former First Lady.

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What they’re saying

“When he tried to holster his gun, he shot himself – yes, right in the butt cheek.”

— Susan Crabtree, Reporter, RealClearPolitics

“It is accurate that the agent suffered an unintentional, self-inflicted gunshot wound to his hip area.”

— Secret Service spokesman

What’s next

The Secret Service's Office of Professional Responsibility is investigating the incident to determine the cause and any necessary changes to training or protocols.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of rigorous training and safety protocols for Secret Service agents who are entrusted with protecting high-profile individuals. It also serves as a reminder of the inherent risks and potential for accidents when firearms are present, even in the hands of trained professionals.