Two U.S. National Guard members were severely wounded in a targeted shooting mere blocks from the White House in Washington, D.C., Wednesday afternoon, prompting immediate federal response and the apprehension of a suspect. The incident, occurring around 2:15 p.m. local time, has generated conflicting reports regarding the condition of the guardsmen, though officials confirm both victims remain in critical condition and are receiving treatment at separate hospitals, according to statements from President Donald Trump and FBI Director Kash Patel. Authorities, including D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, swiftly classified the event as a targeted attack.
Details Emerge on Critical Incident
The rapid-fire incident unfolded within a busy government corridor, several blocks from the Executive Mansion. Initial confusion followed the shooting, particularly concerning the status of the two guardsmen, members of the West Virginia National Guard. West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey initially posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) that the individuals had succumbed to their injuries, only to issue a correction soon after, noting he had received conflicting information.
FBI Director Kash Patel later clarified for reporters that both guardsmen were, in fact, listed in critical condition. President Trump confirmed this assessment via a social media post, adding that the alleged gunman was also seriously injured and had been taken into custody.
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser addressed the press, emphasizing the precise nature of the violence. “The soldiers were the victims of a targeted shooting,” Bowser stated, though she did not immediately elaborate on the motive or the relationship, if any, between the victims and the alleged shooter.
Federal Response and Increased Security
The immediate aftermath triggered a significant increase in security personnel around the nation’s capital. In response to the attack, U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced Wednesday that President Trump authorized the immediate deployment of an additional 500 National Guard personnel to Washington. This immediate reinforcement aims to heighten vigilance and contribute to ongoing security efforts in the central district.
This event underscores the persistent security challenges facing federal and military personnel stationed in the capital. The deployment serves as a visible assurance of stability and protection following a direct attack on uniformed service members.
Authorities are currently conducting a thorough investigation to determine the motive behind the targeted shooting. The quick response from local and federal agencies, including the apprehension of the suspect, highlights the coordinated efforts necessary to manage security threats in such a high-profile location. Further updates are expected as investigators piece together the timeline and circumstances leading up to the attack.