Nasir Best: The 21-year-old who shot at the White House
A 21-year-old Maryland man with a history of mental health issues was killed after firing at Secret Service agents near a White House checkpoint on May 23, 2026.
The incident that occurred outside the White House on Friday, May 23, 2026 has generated intense interest in Nasire Best. The 21-year-old man approached a Secret Service checkpoint, drew a weapon and opened fire. Agents returned fire and shot him dead. A bystander was injured, while no Secret Service personnel were harmed.
According to a report by Newsus24, Best had already come to the attention of authorities in the past. In July 2025, he had attempted to illegally enter a White House checkpoint. During one of his encounters with authorities, he claimed to be “Jesus Christ” and was arrested. He was subsequently transferred to a psychiatric facility for evaluation.
Nasire Best’s nationality and background
Nasire Best was an American citizen. He was born and raised in the United States, had ties to the state of Maryland, and had been living in the Washington area for approximately 18 months before the incident. There is no indication that he held foreign citizenship or had recently immigrated.
The name “Nasire” is a variant of Nasir, with Arabic roots meaning “helper” or “one who gives victory.” It is common in Muslim communities, however all available evidence shows that Best was a U.S. citizen from birth.
Previous incidents and his mental health issues
Authorities knew the young man from his previous appearances near the White House. He frequently approached the area and asked for access. His previous contacts with the Secret Service were mainly related to mental health issues.
Security experts point out that such incidents are often connected to individuals facing unresolved mental health problems who end up in sensitive locations. In this case, Best does not appear to have been an organized threat, but rather a young person with serious personal issues.
Why the public is seeking information about nationality
After every such incident, citizens rush to learn what they can about the perpetrator. In the case of Nasire Best, the answer regarding nationality is clear: he was American. However, interest remains, as his name and behavior raise questions.
Investigations by the FBI and Secret Service continue. The incident shows once again how important proper treatment of mental disorders is, so that similar events around national symbolic sites can be prevented.
