Here’s what happened.
A shocking scene erupted in Washington, D.C. on Monday morning when a U.S. Secret Service SUV suddenly caught fire just blocks from the White House.
Smoke Billows Just Before Trump Meeting
Thick black smoke poured from the government vehicle at the busy intersection of 18th Street NW and Pennsylvania Avenue—less than half a mile from the White House. The timing raised alarm as President Donald Trump prepared to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Video Captures the Chaos
Newsmax’s Mike Carter posted dramatic footage showing investigators circling the charred SUV moments after firefighters extinguished the blaze. The video quickly spread online, with many pointing out the alarming proximity to the President’s secure zone.
What Caused the Fire?
The Secret Service released a statement confirming that the blaze was triggered by an electrical malfunction.
“Just before 10 a.m., a marked vehicle from the Secret Service’s Uniformed Division caught fire at the corner of 18th Street NW and Pennsylvania Avenue,” the spokesman stated, adding that the blaze was traced to an electrical malfunction.
No Injuries Reported, But Serious Questions Raised
Thankfully, no Secret Service personnel or bystanders were injured. Officials praised DC Fire and EMS for their swift response. The agency also insisted there were no disruptions to protective operations surrounding President Trump.
Still, many are asking tough questions: How could a Secret Service vehicle burst into flames so close to the White House? And what does this mean for the reliability of government security operations?
