US Secret Service Increases White House Security Following Reports of Midnight Gunfire Near Lafayette Park

The US Secret Service is investigating reports of gunfire near Lafayette Park. Security has been heightened at the White House while President Trump remains in DC.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 6, 2026, 7:38 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from BBC.

Security Response to Midnight Gunfire

The US Secret Service initiated an immediate investigation after reports of gunfire surfaced just after midnight on Sunday near Lafayette Park. Officers deployed to the area, located directly north of the presidential residence, to conduct an extensive search of the park and its immediate surroundings. According to agency spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi, the investigation led to the temporary closure of several roads, though they have since been reopened to the public. Despite the proximity of the incident to the executive mansion, the agency confirmed that operations at the White House have continued without interruption.

Ongoing Search for Suspects and Vehicles

As of Sunday evening, no suspects have been apprehended, and the Secret Service continues to coordinate with local partners to identify a potential vehicle and a person of interest connected to the discharge of a firearm. The agency has not yet released specific descriptions of the vehicle or individual involved. A representative for the Secret Service told reporters that the investigation remains active, emphasizing that while no physical harm was reported, the incident has necessitated a change in tactical readiness around the perimeter of the complex.

Presidential Schedule During the Incident

President Donald Trump was present in Washington DC at the time of the reported gunfire. Breaking from his usual routine of spending weekends at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, the President remained at the White House for the Easter holiday. White House communications director Steven Cheung noted that the President had been working throughout the weekend in the Oval Office. According to reports from media partners, the President is scheduled to host a family Easter dinner at the residence on Sunday evening, and these plans currently remain in place.