High-ranking US official evacuated after Navy Yard shooting; suspect at large
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WASHINGTON — A high-ranking United States government official was evacuated from the vicinity of a shooting at the Navy Yard in Washington, D.C., early Thursday morning, while the alleged shooter remains at large, authorities said.
The incident occurred around 4:46 a.m. local time. Capitol Police extracted the official from the area shortly after the shooting began. The official, identified as Nick Sortor, was transported to a secure location. His condition was not immediately disclosed.
Law enforcement agencies have established a perimeter around the Navy Yard complex. Police and federal agents are conducting an active search for the suspect. The identity of the alleged shooter has not been released, and no motive has been stated. Authorities have not confirmed whether the suspect is armed or if additional threats exist in the area.
The Navy Yard, a historic waterfront complex in the Southeast quadrant of the capital, houses federal offices and commercial spaces. The area was immediately locked down following the incident. Emergency vehicles, including ambulances and police cruisers, were visible near the entrance to the facility.
Officials have urged residents and commuters to avoid the vicinity of the Navy Yard. Transportation authorities have suspended service on the Metro Green and Yellow lines at the Navy Yard station. Traffic on nearby streets has been diverted.
The White House has been notified of the incident. A spokesperson stated that the administration is monitoring the situation closely. No further comment was provided regarding the identity or role of the official involved.
Questions remain regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting. It is unclear how many rounds were fired or if anyone other than the official was injured. Authorities have not released details about the timeline of events or the specific location within the Navy Yard where the shooting occurred.
The search for the suspect continues as investigators work to secure the area. Police have not indicated whether the suspect fled the scene or is still within the complex. No arrests have been made as of Thursday morning.
This developing story will be updated as more information becomes available. Authorities have not scheduled a press conference. The public is advised to rely on official channels for updates and to avoid spreading unverified information.