A vehicle crashed into the east-side gate of the White House Complex on Monday evening, leading to the arrest of the driver, according to a U.S. Secret Service official. The collision occurred near 15th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue just before 6 p.m. The Secret Service spokesperson stated that the cause of the crash is currently being investigated and advised drivers in the area to anticipate delays. Surrounding streets were temporarily closed as authorities conducted their investigation.
Fortunately, President Joe Biden was not present at the White House at the time of the incident, as he was out of state. Earlier in the day, Biden had visited South Carolina, where he delivered a speech at the Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston. The church was the site of a tragic event in 2015 when a 21-year-old white man entered the premises and killed nine Black parishioners, while also injuring another.
The motive behind the vehicle collision at the White House remains unknown, and authorities are working diligently to ascertain the details surrounding the incident. In the meantime, the Secret Service continues to ensure the safety and security of the White House Complex.