The US Secret Service detained two individuals on Monday after a vehicle crashed into a sign at the northern end of Lafayette Square, directly across from the White House, and another jumped a barricade at Lafayette Park in front of the presidential compound.
According to eyewitness reports, the driver exited the vehicle and became involved in a physical confrontation with Secret Service agents and National Guard personnel.
President Donald Trump was at home during the incidents. The White House was briefly placed on lockdown, with members of the press ordered indoors and roads around the park closed.
The individual was subsequently taken into custody and was heard shouting “Oh my God” as officers escorted him away from the park.
"The driver was combative with law enforcement, but was quickly placed under arrest," a Secret Service spokesperson said in a statement. "Around the same time, a second individual jumped a barricade near the northwest corner of Lafayette Park. That individual was also quickly placed under arrest."
The circumstances surrounding the crash and the driver’s motives remain unclear. Authorities have not yet released the individual’s identity.
Reporters were told to stay in the briefing room, while the Secret Service said it was investigating both incidents.
This is a developing story.