A van crashed into a security barricade near the White House early Wednesday, prompting authorities to temporarily shut down parts of downtown Washington, DC during the morning rush hour.
The incident occurred before dawn at Lafayette Square, located just north of the White House. Officials detained the driver following the crash, and no injuries were reported.
A bomb squad inspected the vehicle and later confirmed that the area was safe. Security officials said the individual involved was taken into custody and is currently being questioned, with possible criminal charges under consideration.
Authorities had deployed numerous emergency vehicles to the scene, while police temporarily blocked several key roads surrounding the White House.
The situation caused significant traffic disruption in the area, preventing office workers and tourists from moving freely through nearby streets.
Security in Washington has been tightened recently amid tensions linked to the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
