A person was reportedly shot early Thursday morning outside the Central Intelligence Agency’s (CIA) headquarters in Langley, Virginia, according to a Reuters report citing multiple media outlets. While the CIA has not confirmed the shooting, the agency did acknowledge a “security incident” near its main entrance.
A CIA spokesperson said that its security team “engaged a person” outside the facility’s gates and that the individual was taken into custody. The agency did not disclose whether the person had been injured by gunfire, according to Reuters.
The CIA, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), stated that the main gate to its Langley compound was closed and advised employees to use alternate routes. According to ABC News, a Fairfax County police spokesperson said the incident took place at around 4 a.m. local time.
The front gate at Headquarters is closed until further notice. Please use alternate routes for Thursday, May 22nd.
— CIA (@CIA) May 22, 2025
A source familiar with the matter told NBC News that the shooting was not fatal. Authorities have not revealed the suspect’s identity or the motive behind the security breach.
Israeli Embassy Staffers Killed in Washington
Just hours before the Langley incident, a separate violent episode unfolded in Washington, D.C., where two staff members of the Israeli Embassy were fatally shot outside a Jewish museum. The victims, Yaron Lischinsky, an Israeli national, and Sarah Milgrim, an American, were reportedly a couple preparing to get engaged.
According to D.C. police, the suspect, identified as Elias Rodriguez, 31, of Chicago, shouted “Free, free Palestine” as he was apprehended. The back-to-back incidents, though not officially linked, have sparked fears about rising hate crimes and political violence in the U.S.
Trump and Netanyahu React to Embassy Shootings
Former U.S. President Donald Trump condemned the killings, describing them as rooted in antisemitism. “These horrible D.C. killings, based obviously on antisemitism, must end, NOW! Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the USA,” he posted on social media Thursday morning.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also responded with a strong statement. “We are witnessing the terrible price of antisemitism and wild incitement against Israel,” he said.
Authorities Probe Motives and Possible Links
While officials have not confirmed any connection between the CIA incident and the fatal embassy shooting, the proximity in timing has raised questions. Investigations into both incidents are ongoing, and authorities have not ruled out broader security concerns.
With heightened tensions worldwide and increasing reports of antisemitic acts, law enforcement agencies are urging vigilance and cooperation with ongoing investigations. As more information emerges, both incidents are likely to spark further debate on domestic extremism and security at high-profile government and diplomatic locations.
