Trump Claims White House Shooter Had 'Obsession' with the Mansion

Gunfire erupted near the White House on Sunday evening, sending shockwaves through the nation’s capital. President Trump wasted no time in addressing the incident, suggesting that the shooter had a “possible obsession” with the Executive Mansion.

“Thank you to our great Secret Service and Law Enforcement for the swift and professional action taken this evening against a gunman near the White House, who had a violent history and possible obsession with our Country’s most cherished structure,” Trump posted on Truth Social shortly after midnight.

The assailant, identified as 21-year-old Nasire Best, approached a security checkpoint at the intersection of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue armed with a revolver. At approximately 6:10 p.m., he opened fire, unleashing several rounds before being neutralized by quick-thinking Secret Service agents.

Best, who believed he was Jesus Christ, was no stranger to law enforcement. He had a history of loitering around White House entry points and had previously violated a court order mandating he stay away from the premises. Back in July 2025, he attempted to breach a checkpoint without authorization, ignoring officers’ commands while insisting on his divine identity.

A “Pretrial Stay Away Order” had been issued against him, but it did little to deter his erratic behavior. In August, a bench warrant was issued after he failed to appear for a hearing related to his noncompliance.

Amidst the chaos, reports surfaced that a bystander was injured during the exchange of gunfire. The Secret Service swiftly enacted a lockdown of the White House, directing reporters to gather on the north lawn and seek refuge in the press briefing room. The lockdown lasted about half an hour before being lifted.

As for motives? Those remain shrouded in mystery. However, Trump seized the moment to advocate for his controversial new ballroom project, which is set to replace the East Wing of the White House. “This event is one month removed from the White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting, and goes to show how important it is, for all future Presidents, to get what will be the most safe and secure space of its kind ever built in Washington, D.C. The National Security of our Country demands it!”

Just weeks prior, Trump and First Lady Melania were present at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner when another shooting incident occurred outside the venue, injuring a Secret Service agent. On Saturday, Trump was in the Oval Office wrapping up a call with Middle Eastern leaders regarding peace negotiations with Iran when the shooting unfolded.

“I am in the Oval Office at the White House where we just had a very good call,” he tweeted at 4:30 p.m., unaware of the chaos that would soon erupt outside his doors.