Known identity of attacker outside the White House: Previously claimed to be Jesus

The gunman was identified as Nasire Best of Dundalk, Maryland, who was previously known to authorities and had a history of mental health problems.

According to court documents, the man who opened fire in front of the presidential residence had previously had several incidents at the same location.

The Metropolitan Police in Washington said that Best blocked the entrance to the White House back in June 2025, when he claimed to be Jesus to Secret Service agents.

After that incident, he was referred for a psychiatric evaluation.

Despite this, already in July of last year, he tried to enter the White House complex again, after which he was arrested and charged with trespassing on federal property.

Although he was released to defend himself, in August 2025 he did not appear at the scheduled court hearing, which is why a warrant was issued for him without the possibility of bail.

Less than a year later, Best reappeared outside the White House. According to the investigation, he pulled out a firearm and began firing toward a Secret Service checkpoint at the intersection of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, near the Eisenhower Executive Office Building.

At the moment of the attack, the journalist crews filming nearby had to urgently seek cover and retreat inside the complex.

Members of the Secret Service immediately returned fire and neutralized the attacker. Best was taken to hospital where he was pronounced dead.

A bystander was also wounded in the shooting, but details about his medical condition have not yet been released.

US President Donald Trump was in the White House at the time of the attack, but was not injured.

The incident came just a month after a gunman opened fire during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, when hundreds of dignitaries had to be evacuated and President Trump rushed to a safe location.

(Vijesti.ba)