A car struck the White House fence in Washington, D.C., and the driver was taken into custody soon after the collision. The information came from a spokesperson for the Secret Service, Anthony Giullielmi, as reported by RIA News. The incident prompted rapid responses from security forces and an immediate review of the surrounding area and procedures that protect the presidential complex.
Officials noted that the crash occurred shortly before 18:00 local time (02:00 Moscow time). The gate at the outer perimeter of the White House security zone was impacted, and the driver was detained on the scene. Authorities described the moment as a serious security incident that warranted a swift, coordinated response to ensure the safety of the vicinity and the people nearby.
Giullielmi also indicated that investigators are examining the circumstances and motive behind the collision. He added that traffic disruptions were anticipated as investigators and law enforcement personnel conducted their work and secured the area to prevent further risk to the public or the presidential staff and visitors.
Earlier updates noted that the vehicle had struck a parked SUV that was part of the protective convoy for President Joe Biden. Both the President and First Lady Jill Biden were not harmed in the incident, and official protections remained in place as the scene was assessed and cleared. Security teams continue to review surveillance footage and interview witnesses to piece together what happened and why.
In a separate but related note from November, Secret Service agents were stationed near the home of President Biden’s grandson when a group attempted to approach a vehicle and shots were fired. The incident raised questions about security around the president’s family and prompted a broader review of protective measures in residential contexts, though no injuries were reported in that event either.
Additionally, a separate criminal matter resurfaced around an individual who allegedly tried to set fire to Lenin’s Mausoleum. A case was opened following that incident, underscoring ongoing law enforcement activity surrounding threats to public figures and historic sites across the country.