Two West Virginia National Guard members shot near White House

Two West Virginia National Guard members were critically wounded Saturday afternoon in what authorities described as a “targeted attack” near the White House, prompting a rapid response from local and federal officials as investigators work to piece together what happened and why. The shooting, which occurred around 2:15 p.m., has added tension to an already security-heightened Washington.

According to Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser, the two Guard members were participating in “high visibility patrols” when a suspect approached them from only a few feet away and opened fire. Officials have not revealed what type of weapon was used, nor have they released identifying information about the shooter. The West Virginia National Guard members were taken to a nearby hospital, where they remain in critical condition.

Early confusion surrounded the victims’ condition. West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey initially stated the two Guard members had died from their injuries, but later corrected himself, acknowledging “conflicting reports” and saying he would provide updates once information was confirmed. The Associated Press reported that a man connected to the attack is currently in custody.

Authorities said that National Guard personnel and local law enforcement returned fire during the incident, injuring the suspect. Video taken at the scene shows officers restraining an individual on the ground while first responders attempt CPR on one of the wounded Guard members. Investigators have not yet determined who fired the shot that wounded the suspect and are reviewing surveillance and bystander footage. Officials say the suspect is hospitalized and has not yet been interviewed.

President Donald Trump was at his West Palm Beach golf course at the time of the shooting but was quickly briefed on the situation. Shortly after, the White House said it was “aware and actively monitoring this tragic situation” and confirmed that “the president has been briefed,” according to press secretary Karoline Leavitt, as reported by The New York Times. On social media, Trump said the “animal” who shot the service members is “severely wounded” and “will pay a very steep price.” He also announced he was requesting an additional 500 National Guard members be deployed to Washington, saying the move would “stiffen our resolve.”

Roughly 160 West Virginia Guard members are currently stationed in Washington, down from the 300 originally requested earlier in the year. In total, more than 2,000 Guard members and airmen from six states are operating in the city as part of ongoing federal security efforts.

Reaction from national and state leaders followed swiftly. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said she was working with authorities to gather more information and added that she was praying for the two injured members. 

As investigators continue to examine the circumstances, officials have not released a motive and say many questions remain unanswered. The incident marks one of the most serious attacks on deployed Guard members in the capital in recent years, prompting renewed attention to security operations around the White House.