WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Secret Service said it was investigating reports of gunshots near the White House after journalists on the grounds heard sounds resembling shots and took cover. Law enforcement was responding to reports of shots fired near the White House.

Anthony Guglielmi, a Secret Service spokesperson, said the agency was aware of reports of shots fired near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW and was working to corroborate the information with personnel on the ground, according to a statement. It was unclear where the apparent shots originated or if there was any ongoing threat.

Several journalists at the White House reported hearing sounds resembling gunshots nearby. Correspondent Selina Wang took cover as a volley of bangs could be heard across the White House's north lawn. Wang also wrote on X about what unfolded in the moments after the sounds were heard.

"We were told to sprint to the press briefing room where we are holding now," Wang wrote on X. Guglielmi said the Secret Service was working to corroborate reports with personnel on the ground. Law enforcement personnel were responding to the reports as the situation remained unclear.