The bystander who was shot during a Secret Service-involved incident near the White House on May 23 has been identified as 25-year-old Benjamin Del Real, a soldier. Del Real was touring Washington, D.C. when the shooting occurred near a Secret Service checkpoint. It is currently unclear whether he was struck by a bullet from the suspect or a Secret Service agent.
Del Real's attorney, Joseph Murphy from Clifford Law Office, stated that they are investigating the circumstances of the incident and are focused on Del Real's recovery. He underwent surgery and is reportedly still recovering from critical injuries, with indications that he may have been shot in the abdomen.
The Secret Service has not confirmed the source of the gunfire that injured Del Real. The shooting was initiated by 21-year-old Nasire Best, a Maryland resident, who pulled a weapon from a bag and was subsequently shot and killed by agents. Witnesses reported hearing approximately 20 to 30 gunshots during the incident.
The Metropolitan Police Department is conducting an investigation into the shooting. Best had a history of police encounters and mental health issues, including a previous incident in July 2025 when he approached the White House claiming to be Jesus Christ.
At the time of the shooting, President Donald Trump was present at the White House but was not harmed. This incident followed a separate security scare involving a gunman who intended to target Trump at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in late April.