PHOTOS: US Capitol on lockdown
The lockdown was lifted around 2 p.m. Thursday when the "all clear" was given over the loudspeaker. The building remains closed to the public, but those with credentials are allowed in and out.
Police called the situation an isolated incident, not terrorism.
Sources tell ABC7 News the suspect tried to ram a barrier with her car at the White House. She then fled to Capitol Hill where she was fatally shot by police. No officers were injured in the shooting, but an officer responding to the scene was involved in a crash.
"There was a lot of confusion, but it does not appear any law enforcement officers were shot," Sgt. Terry Gainer, the Sergeant at Arms in the Senate and former chief of Captiol Police, tells ABC News.
ABC News reports a child was found inside the vehicle she allegedly used to ram a White House barrier. Authorities did not find a weapon, sources said.
Three senators tell ABC News they heard gunfire on Capitol Hill.
"We heard pops that sounded like shots," said Senator Bob Casey, D-Pa.
"We heard shots. They told us to get behind a car," said Senator Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio.
US Capitol Police released a message: SHELTER IN PLACE. Gunshots have been reported on Capitol Hill requiring staff in all Senate Office Buildings to immediately shelter in place. Close, lock and stay away from external doors and windows. Take annunciators, emergency supply kits and escape hoods; and move to your office's assigned shelter in place location or the innermost part of the office away from external doors or windows. If you are not near your office, go to the office nearest to you and shelter with that office and then check in with your OEC. No one will be permitted to enter or exit the building until directed by USCP. Staff is advised to monitor the situation. Further information will be provided as it becomes available.
Employees in the U.S. Capitol told ABC 7 Chicago that they were notified about the situation and were told by authorities to shelter in place. Many of the Illinois congregation are staying in their offices in the Capitol. Another employee said it's business as usual, with precautions.
People standing outside the Supreme Court across the street from Congress were hurried into the court building by authorities. Police have closed down the section of Penn. Ave in front of the White House.
