White House on lockdown after suspicious package found: Official

The White House was placed on a security lockdown during the Memorial Day holiday after the recovery of a suspicious package, an official said on MondayThe north side of the White House was placed on a security lockdown on Monday because of a suspicious package, a secret service official said.

The north side of the White House was placed on a security lockdown on Monday because of a suspicious package, a secret service official said.

In this file photo, the White House is viewed from Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington. The compound was placed on a security lockdown during the Memorial Day holiday after the recovery of a suspicious package. (AP)

The partial lockdown on the Memorial Day holiday occurred while President Barack Obama was home.

Reporters were not allowed to leave the White House compound through its northwest gate and flashing lights from emergency responders could be seen nearby.

The official said hazardous material checks were being made.

Local news radio station WTOP reported that one person was in custody, citing a federal law enforcement official.

Obama had visited Arlington Cemetery earlier in the day as part of the annual commemoration for armed services members.