The White House has reportedly been put on lockdown after shots were fired nearby Friday afternoon. Initial reports indicated the shooting occurred on W. Executive Drive, the street located immediately next to the West Wing and inside the White House’s gates, but NBC News is now reporting, per police, that someone was shot at 17th and E streets in NW, which is two blocks away.
One person in critical condition has been taken to the hospital, according to a fire department spokesperson.
According to reports on Twitter, White House press in the briefing room were instructed to take shelter in the basement.
President Barack Obama is reportedly not on the premises.
We will update this post as more information becomes available.
Update (3:55 p.m.): According to multiple reports, an armed man approached the White House with a weapon that he was ordered to drop. When he refused, he was shot by a Secret Service officer.
Update (4:15 p.m.): The lockdown has been lifted.
Update (5:00 p.m.): Vice President Joe Biden was reportedly in the White House at the time of the shooting, but is unharmed.