NBC News reporter Julie Tsirkin responded to her viral reaction during a shooting incident near a White House security checkpoint on Saturday evening. In footage shared by NBC 10 Boston, Tsirkin was seen asking 'What is that?' as shots were heard in the background, while a cameraman suggested it sounded like fireworks. Her confused expression quickly became the subject of memes on social media, prompting Tsirkin to acknowledge the situation humorously on her social media accounts.
On Sunday, Tsirkin shared her thoughts on the memes, stating, 'I’m glad I could take one for the team,' and thanked the internet for the memes while encouraging viewers to stay for her reporting. She noted that this was the second shooting she had witnessed and covered in a month, expressing gratitude for her safety amid the chaos.
The shooting incident occurred shortly after 6 p.m. when a man approached a security checkpoint, drew a weapon, and began firing at officers. Secret Service agents returned fire, striking the suspect, who later died in the hospital. A bystander was also injured but is reported to be in serious but stable condition.
Tsirkin, along with other journalists present, was rushed indoors as the area was locked down. ABC News White House correspondent Selina Wang also reported being filming a social media video when the shots rang out. The suspect, identified as 21-year-old Nasire Best, had a prior history with the Secret Service and was barred from returning to the White House after a previous incident.