Soldier Shot by Secret Service Agent While Touring DC Sues for Negligence

The May shooting of a U.S. Army private near the White House has left him critically wounded and seeking justice through a lawsuit against the Secret Service for negligence. The serviceman, Benjamin Del Real, 25, was touring Washington, D.C. with his family, visiting iconic sites such as the National Archives and Arlington National Cemetery, before heading to the White House.

On that fateful night, Del Real, along with his father and sister, found themselves facing a chaotic scene as a man, identified as 21-year-old Nasire Best, began firing at Secret Service officers. Del Real recalled seeing the assailant pull out a gun and start firing without hesitation. 'I saw the assailant with the gun before he started firing,' Del Real told NBC4 Washington. 'I think what's important to know is he didn't hesitate. He didn't say anything. He didn't pan left or right. He just immediately started. He pulled the gun out and just immediately started firing.' Del Real quickly went to the ground, shielding his father in a nearby parking garage.

Del Real sustained serious injuries, with a bullet lodged in his abdomen and no exit wound, causing significant bleeding. The incident led to a lengthy stay at the hospital, with multiple surgeries, including a procedure at George Washington University Hospital. Despite his ordeal, Del Real remains on leave from the Army and is focusing on his recovery and return to duties. 'Yeah, that's the biggest worry of this all to begin with is just not knowing if my body, the vessel that I inhabit now, will be able to sustain the rigors of training that lie ahead,' he said.

A high-ranking Secret Service official reportedly visited Del Real while he was recuperating at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. However, the Secret Service has thus far not publicly acknowledged shooting the private first class. His attorney, Joseph Murphy, expressed respect for the Secret Service, yet stressed that their recent lack of efficiency in protecting high-ranking officials and civilians alike warrants a thorough investigation into the agency's performance.

Del Real emphasized his willingness to cooperate with the investigation and even requested access to the CCTV footage of the incident to shed more light on the circumstances surrounding his shooting. His primary concern, however, remains regaining his health to ensure a smooth return to his duties in the U.S. Army. 'At a minimum, being able to see the CCTV footage would be, you know, illuminating. So, I think that that would be a good start,' he stated.

The investigation into the shooting has been completed and handed over to the U.S. attorney's office for review. In a statement, the Secret Service mentioned that they do not comment on pending litigation. Del Real's case serves as a poignant reminder of the risks faced by service members and civilians alike during high-profile events.

The events at the White House that night have sparked heated debate about the Secret Service's response and protocols in place to safeguard lives during critical situations. Del Real's lawsuit, while a painful consequence of the incident, may serve as a catalyst for change, ensuring that lessons are learned and procedures are revised to prevent such tragedies in the future.

As the investigation unfolds, the nation watches with anticipation, seeking justice and answers in this complex case. Del Real's road to recovery, both physically and emotionally, serves as a testament to the resilience of those who serve and protect our country.