Content Warning: This article contains information about a violent incident involving firearms and mentions suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please reach out to the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for help and support.
The Secret Service announced that a man was shot during a confrontation near the White House early Sunday morning. Identified as 27-year-old Andrew Dawson from Indiana, the suspect was armed with a firearm and a knife when approached by agents near the Eisenhower Executive Office Building.
Authorities were alerted to Dawson’s presence in Washington, D.C. after Indiana police reported concerns about his well-being and potential suicidal intentions. Intelligence reports suggested that he may have been seeking a confrontation with law enforcement.
When agents encountered Dawson near 17th and F Streets, NW, they instructed him to drop his weapons, but he allegedly made a threatening gesture towards his waist, prompting the agents to open fire. Dawson was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, and his condition remains unknown.
The incident is under investigation by the Metropolitan Police Department, as they are responsible for use-of-force cases within the District of Columbia. President Donald Trump was not present at the White House during the event.
