Shooting at US Consulate in Saudi Arabia, Nepalese security guard killed

Security forces shot and killed an armed man near the US Consulate in Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah, the Saudi Press Agency reported late Wednesday.

An unnamed individual stopped their car near the US diplomatic facility and got out carrying a firearm before security forces “took the initiative to deal with him as required by the situation,” according to SPA. A shootout between the assailant and the security forces resulted in the individual’s death.

A Nepalese worker at the US Consulate was wounded during the exchange of gunfire and subsequently died. Investigations are currently underway to determine the motive and circumstances behind the incident.

A State Department spokesperson confirmed that the shooting incident to Al Arabiya English led to two deaths.

“The US Embassy and Consulate remain in contact with Saudi authorities as they investigate the incident,” the official said. “The Consulate was appropriately locked down, and no Americans were harmed in the attack.”

The State Department official also offered Washington’s condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased local guard’s member.