WASHINGTON -- The US Secret Service fatally shot a man near the White House on Saturday after he approached a security checkpoint and opened fire on officers, according to US media.

Correspondents stationed near the White House said they heard what appeared to be repeated gunfire on Saturday, triggering an immediate security response around the grounds.

CNN reporters heard what appeared to be dozens of gunshots near the White House, triggering a lockdown and a rapid response from the US Secret Service.