Fact Check: Did a shooting take place near JD Vance's motorcade in Washington?

WASHINGTON, DC: Following the shooting that took place in Washington, prompting a brief lockdown in the White House, a rumor began circulating on social media platforms claiming that the incident took place near Vice President JD Vance’s motorcade, sparking concerns and speculations. Let us analyze the viral claim and fact-check its authenticity.

Claim: Shooting took place near JD Vance's motorcade

Following the incident, several posts on X claimed that the shooting had taken place near JD Vance's motorcade, given the proximity to the spot.

“The man reportedly opened fire near Vice President JD Vance‘s motorcade in the vicinity of the White House,” an X post claimed.

Independent journalist Nick Sortor noted on X, “An armed man opened fire in the vicinity of JD Vance’s motorcade near the White House, per USSS.” 

The claim has sparked concerns and speculations among online users who are questioning the authenticity of the rumor.

Fact Check: Misreported, JD Vance's motocade passed minutes before the shooting

However, the shooting did not occur near Vance's motorcade. The Secret Service noted that the shooting had taken place ‘minutes after’ Vance's motorcade had passed through the area. 

“Not long before the shooting near the National Mall, Vice President Vance’s motorcade passed through the area, per Secret Service deputy director,” noted NewsNation's Libbey Dean.

No evidence indicates that the suspect intended to approach Vance's motorcade, according to a statement by the Secret Service deputy director.

 Secret Service responded immediately after the shooting

The incident took place near the historic Washington Monument, a site usually guarded with the highest level of federal security, prompting an immediate emergency response. 

The Secret Service involved in the incident released a statement saying, “US Secret Service personnel are on the scene of an officer-involved shooting at 15th Street and Independence Avenue in Washington, DC."

"One individual was shot by law enforcement; their condition is currently unknown. Please avoid the area as emergency crews are responding.” 

Following the incident, Secret Service Deputy Director Matthew Quinn held a press conference stating, “They returned fire and engaged. That individual was hit; he was transported to the hospital."

"At least one, only one bystander was hit by the suspect. That individual, the juvenile, did not sustain any life-threatening injuries, but he's also receiving treatment at the hospital.”