Secret Service Engages Carjackers Near Treasury Secretary's DC Home
A Secret Service agent discharged their weapon at carjackers early Tuesday near U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen's residence in Washington, D.C., as the Daily Mail reports.
The incident unfolded around 1:30 a.m. when a uniformed agent responded to individuals attempting to break into vehicles. The suspects, traveling in a sedan, fled the scene immediately after the agent fired.
Details of Carjacking Incident
According to the Secret Service, there were multiple occupants in the sedan attempting to open car doors.
This confrontation led to the agent discharging their service weapon as the sedan approached.
NBC News reported the altercation involved the agent and the car's occupants.
Despite the use of a firearm, the Secret Service confirmed that there was "no evidence to indicate anyone was struck."
Carjackings on Rise in Washington, D.C.
Carjackings have surged in Washington, D.C., with 958 incidents reported last year, almost doubling the previous year's total. This year has already seen 475 carjackings, indicating a persistent issue.
This is not the first time the Secret Service has been involved in such incidents.
Approximately 13 months ago, agents fired at individuals attempting to break into a vehicle near Naomi Biden's residence in Georgetown.
Impact on Local Officials and High-Profile Individuals
The increasing number of carjackings has also affected other politicians such as Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-TX).
Two teenagers were arrested earlier this year for their involvement in the previous Georgetown incident, which targeted a vehicle used by Secret Service agents.
The statement from the Secret Service emphasized that there was no threat to any protectees during this incident and assured the public that nobody under the agency's care was harmed.
Response and Security Measures
While the Treasury Department and the U.S. Secret Service did not officially comment on the incident, their statement assured the public of ongoing safety measures for high-profile individuals such as Yellen.
Yellen's home, located in a high-value area of Northwest Washington valued at about $2.7 million, is under constant surveillance by USSS agents ensuring her security.
Broader Implications for Urban Safety
The persistent rise in violent carjackings has ignited debates over crime punishment laws in the city.
Critics argue that relaxed laws may be contributing to the increase in such crimes.
As law enforcement and policymakers grapple with these challenges, the community remains alert, and security protocols continue to be scrutinized.