White House Evacuated After Suspicious Package Found Near Grounds
The White House was briefly evacuated Friday morning after law enforcement discovered a suspicious package near the complex's perimeter. Secret Service agents swiftly secured the area while bomb technicians investigated the item, which was later deemed non-hazardous.
The incident occurred around 9:30 AM ET when a uniformed division officer spotted the unattended package near the Ellipse. President Biden was at the White House during the evacuation but was never in immediate danger, according to officials.
Traffic around the complex was temporarily halted, and tourists were moved to safety. The package was removed by 10:15 AM after X-ray analysis confirmed it contained no explosives. Normal operations resumed shortly afterward.
This marks the third security scare at the White House this year. The Secret Service has faced increased scrutiny following recent breaches, including a 2025 incident where a protestor scaled the fence.
Social media footage showed multiple emergency vehicles responding to the scene. The Metropolitan Police Department assisted with the investigation, though no arrests have been made. Authorities haven't released details about the package's contents.
Security experts note that such incidents have become more frequent since pandemic-era fencing was removed last fall. The Secret Service maintains its protocols successfully contained today's situation without disruption to executive functions.
The White House press pool was briefly restricted from movement during the incident. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed the president received real-time updates throughout the morning.
Tour groups visiting for the annual spring garden tours were among those temporarily relocated. Visitor access has since been restored, though some areas remain under additional screening measures.
This developing story is trending nationally as Americans express concern about ongoing security challenges at the nation's most protected address. Congressional oversight committees are expected to request a briefing on today's events.
