Van crash at White House gate prompts road closures in DC; driver detained, no injuries reported

 

A driver smashed into a White House gate early Wednesday (March 11), prompting road closures around the complex in Washington DC, according to The Daily Mail. The incident reportedly occurred just after 6.30am at the intersection of Connecticut Avenue and H Street, Northwest.

The driver, who was operating a van, was detained and is being questioned by the US Secret Service. No injuries were reported, the Metropolitan Police Department confirmed, as stated by the news outlet.

The incident comes just days after two alleged ISIS terrorists hurled improvised explosive devices at a protest outside the New York mayor’s mansion.

Also, a day after the first US strikes on Iran, an Islamist gunman opened fire at a bar in Austin, Texas, killing three people and wounding 15 others. Meanwhile, across the border in Canada, two gunmen opened fire on the US consulate in Toronto on Tuesday morning.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates

Early Wednesday morning, March 11, 2026, a van crashed into a security barrier on the northern perimeter of the White House complex, leading to a temporary lockdown and several road closures in downtown Washington, D.C.

Incident Details

• Time: The crash occurred just before 6:30 a.m. EST during the morning rush hour.

• Location: The vehicle struck a temporary security gate at the intersection of Connecticut Avenue and H Street NW, near Lafayette Square.

• Status of Driver: The male driver was immediately detained by U.S. Secret Service Uniformed Division officers. He is currently being questioned, and criminal charges are pending.

• Casualties: No injuries were reported by the Secret Service or the Metropolitan Police Department (MPDC).

  
  
  

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Security Response & Closures

Following the incident, the White House was placed under a brief lockdown. A police bomb squad was called to the scene to inspect the van; they have since cleared the vehicle and determined it to be safe.

Ongoing Road Closures:

• Several major streets north of the White House remain sealed off.

• Significant traffic delays are reported as government employees and city workers are being diverted from the area.

• Access to Lafayette Square is restricted while the Secret Service and MPDC continue their investigation.

  
  
  

Context

While a specific motive has not yet been released, the incident occurred during a period of heightened security in the capital. Authorities are investigating whether the crash was accidental or intentional.

Would you like me to monitor for updates on the driver's identity or the official cause of the crash as they are released?

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