Two National Guard Members Shot in Targeted Attack Near White House in Washington D.C.
Washington, D.C. — Two National Guard soldiers from West Virginia were critically wounded in a targeted and ambush-style shooting incident that occurred just two blocks from the White House on Wednesday afternoon, authorities confirmed.
The attack took place during daylight hours as the guardsmen were patrolling the nation’s capital under the directive of President Donald J. Trump’s crime crackdown task force. Both servicemen sustained severe injuries and were rushed to an area hospital for emergency treatment, with at least one transported by medical evacuation helicopter.
Law enforcement officers apprehended a suspect at the scene, who was also hospitalized with serious injuries. Preliminary investigations suggest the shooting was deliberate and targeted against the National Guard members on duty.
A press conference held shortly after the event revealed that the assailant reportedly walked around a corner before opening fire on the soldiers, emphasizing the brazen nature of the attack in close proximity to critical government buildings.
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has responded swiftly to the incident, stating that President Trump has ordered an additional deployment of 500 National Guardsmen to Washington D.C. to bolster security and respond to ongoing threats.
This escalation marks a significant development in the security posture of the capital amid ongoing concerns about crime and public safety surrounding federal buildings and officials.
Officials are continuing to investigate the motives behind the shooting and the extent of any broader threat while monitoring the conditions of the injured guardsmen. The identities of the victims and suspect have not been publicly released at this time pending notification of families.
The shooting underscores the risks faced by National Guard members deployed in support of civil authorities and has prompted renewed discussions on the measures needed to protect personnel and maintain order during heightened periods of civil tension.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.