A man was arrested late on Tuesday night after his car collided with a security gate outside the White House in Washington, according to local news outlets.
The crash happened at about 10:37 PM local time near the junction of 17th Street and E Street NW, along the southwestern edge of the presidential compound.
The US Secret Service said the driver deliberately struck the reinforced gate, triggering an immediate response from officers on duty.
Agents moved swiftly to detain the suspect as additional security teams arrived to secure the perimeter, Fox News reported. Armed officers were seen surrounding the site, while forensic specialists inspected the damaged vehicle.
Authorities have yet to disclose the suspect’s name, possible motive, or details about the lead-up to the incident.
Footage shared on social media appeared to show Secret Service agents documenting the scene, taking measurements and photographs around the car.
The area was briefly cordoned off while security officials assessed the situation.
Although the White House itself was not locked down, the adjoining road was closed until the vehicle had been removed.
No injuries were reported in the incident.
The Secret Service said it is reviewing video evidence and other materials to determine why the driver rammed the gate.
Several outlets reported that President Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time.
The crash site lies close to the American Red Cross headquarters, southwest of the main residence.
Part of a Series of Security Breaches
This is the latest in a string of vehicle-related security breaches near the presidential grounds.
In January 2024, another driver crashed into an outer barrier and was taken into custody. In May of the same year, a separate collision with a security block resulted in the driver’s death.
The Secret Service later confirmed that neither case posed a broader threat to public safety.
The most recent event occurred amid ongoing construction of a new East Wing ballroom, which has already led to tighter security measures around the complex.
It also came just days after another security alert, when a suspicious hunting platform was discovered overlooking the area where President Trump was due to disembark from Air Force One at Palm Beach International Airport in Florida.
Officials have not confirmed whether the two incidents are connected. Investigations are continuing.
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