Fatal shooting on Georgia's Fort Stewart military base Thursday morning triggered an instantaneous federal response, with the White House announcing President Donald Trump has been briefed and is watching closely.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt verified on X (formerly Twitter) that President Trump was briefed shortly after news broke of an active shooter on the base.
“The White House is monitoring the situation,” she wrote, underscoring that top federal security officials have been engaged, and coordination with the Department of Defense is ongoing.
This is the first significant domestic military security event during Trump's re-established administration.
Reports indicate that the President has requested to be informed hourly and will release a formal statement later today.
Fort Stewart, which is home to the 3rd Infantry Division, was locked down early Thursday after a report of shots fired in a barracks facility. Emergency procedures were activated at about 9:15 AM local time, with base personnel instructed to take cover in place.
A rapid response was mounted by military police, SWAT teams, and federal law enforcement. Authorities have not yet confirmed the shooter's status, but several casualties have been reported, as to the identity and condition of the affected remains unknown.
Given the possibility of national security concerns, the White House has ordered significant federal agencies such as the FBI, Department of Homeland Security, and ATF to lend support to the investigation. A multiagency task force is currently on the ground, collaborating with military personnel to identify the motive and conditions surrounding the incident.
The Pentagon too has been actively engaged, keeping constant contact with the base and updating the National Security Council throughout the day.
As one of the largest U.S. Army installations, Fort Stewart houses more than 20,000 troops. Its significance has elevated the urgency of the federal response. Trump administration insiders describe the President as “deeply concerned” and “focused on ensuring national readiness amid domestic threats.”
Nearby civilian institutions, including schools, were placed on temporary lockdowns as a precautionary measure. The base has asked residents and media to await verified updates.
While the President has not made a public appearance regarding the shooting, Press Secretary Leavitt said the administration would issue further information “as the investigation progresses.”
With the situation evolving rapidly and details still emerging, the White House’s swift acknowledgement and involvement signal the seriousness of the incident, which may prompt a broader discussion around security protocols at domestic military installations.
