In a stunning development, a woman was shot at CIA headquarters after refusing to stop her vehicle at the gate.
Security guards opened fire at her when she attempted unauthorized access to the highly secure facility.
This latest incident adds to growing concerns about security at federal installations across the country amid heightened terrorist threats.
The shooting occurred at the CIA’s McLean, Virginia, headquarters when guards confronted a female driver who drove to the front gates but refused to comply with security protocols.
When she continued toward the entrance despite warnings, security personnel opened fire, striking her in the upper body.
Fairfax County police officers quickly responded to assist with traffic control around the facility.
The woman was transported to a local hospital with what authorities described as “non-fatal” injuries.
Her identity and motives remain unknown as federal authorities have launched a full investigation into the incident.
A CIA spokesperson confirmed the incident in a brief statement: “There was a security incident that law enforcement responded to outside CIA Headquarters.”
“The main gate is currently closed, employees should seek alternative routes. Additional details will be made available as appropriate,” the spokesperson added.
BREAKING: Female driver SHOT by outer perimeter guards while attempting to ram through the security gate at CIA Headquarters in McLean, Virginia. FBI on scene investigating.
RADICAL LEFTISTS ARE FULLY ACTIVATED. pic.twitter.com/XJm69i1lPL
— Dapper Detective (@Dapper_Det) May 22, 2025
The CIA described the confrontation as a “security incident,” according to an insider.
This security breach comes amid escalating tensions following a separate deadly shooting outside a Jewish museum in New York, where two Israeli embassy workers were killed.
Authorities reported that the suspect in that attack shouted “Free, free Palestine” upon arrest, raising concerns about potential coordinated threats against U.S. and allied interests.
The CIA headquarters has been the target of security incidents before. In 2021, an FBI agent shot and killed a man outside the facility who claimed to have a bomb.
Another standoff occurred in March of this year, though details of that incident were not fully disclosed to the public.
While officials have not released information about who fired the shots or the woman’s motive, the incident highlights ongoing security challenges at sensitive government facilities.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area around CIA headquarters as the investigation continues.
The agency has instructed employees to use alternate routes as the main gate remains closed.
Law enforcement officials have indicated that updates will be provided as the situation develops.
