Secret Service agents discharged their weapons at carjackers attempting to break into vehicles near the residence of Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen in Northwest Washington, D.C., early Tuesday morning.
The suspects fled the scene and remain at large, authorities confirmed.
The incident occurred shortly after 1:30 a.m. in Yellen’s neighborhood, though no injuries were reported.
Early this morning, a Secret Service officer discharged a weapon outside the home of U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen.
The circumstances remain unclear, and a suspect fled the scene. — Crime With Bobby (@CrimeWithBobby) December 3, 2024
Here's What They're Not Telling You About Your Retirement
The Secret Service agents, tasked with protecting the high-ranking Cabinet official, were responding to the attempted theft when the confrontation unfolded.
According to law enforcement sources, the carjackers drove away from the area in their vehicle immediately after the shots were fired.
The Secret Service released a statement confirming the use of firearms by its agents and assured the public that the situation is being thoroughly investigated.
The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) is leading the investigation into the attempted car theft and the use of firearms by federal agents.
FREE Gun Law Map: Laws Don't Pause During Social Unrest
The case will be reviewed by the office of U.S. Attorney Matthew Graves, which has jurisdiction over such incidents in Washington, D.C.
“The Secret Service is cooperating fully with the investigation being conducted by the MPD,” a spokesperson for the agency said.
At 3:30 am, the Secret Service discharged a weapon outside the home of the Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen. https://t.co/yqLdsnXd8h
— Andrew Leyden (@PenguinSix) December 3, 2024
Officials have not disclosed any identifying details about the suspects or the vehicle they used to flee the scene.
The exact proximity of the incident to Yellen’s home and whether she was present at the time have also not been clarified.
The Treasury Secretary’s residence is located in a secure area in Northwest Washington, D.C., and is under routine surveillance by federal security personnel.
Such incidents highlight the growing concerns over rising crime rates in the nation's capital, including an increase in carjackings.
Law enforcement agencies have urged the public to come forward with any information that may assist in identifying the suspects.
The MPD continues to review surveillance footage and gather evidence from the scene.
This incident comes as the city grapples with broader public safety concerns, prompting calls for increased law enforcement presence in high-profile neighborhoods and beyond.
Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
Join the Discussion
COMMENTS POLICY: We have no tolerance for messages of violence, racism, vulgarity, obscenity or other such discourteous behavior. Thank you for contributing to a respectful and useful online dialogue.
First of all, “Carjackers” implies that a driver was in their vehicle, otherwise they are car thieves. Secondly and most important is will this agent(s) be fired, or are they setting the precedent that we, the people, are justified in shooting thieves when there is no threat to life.