Two West Virginia National Guard Members Shot Near the White House in a Targeted Attack
Two West Virginia National Guard members were shot and killed Wednesday afternoon near the White House. Washington, D.C. holiday week was chaotic and scary. Authorities suspect the event was a conspiracy to attack capital security soldiers.
Events occurred at a metro stop northwest of the White House. Many National Guard troops were there for security. Police say the shooter appeared unexpectedly and fired. Authorities who watched the footage said no fight occurred before the shooting.
The Guard personnel were sent to the hospital immediately and were in poor condition. Families are still receiving victim names from police. Rahmanullah Lakanwal was captured after being shot in battle. Many don’t consider his injuries life-threatening. They want to know his history and motivations.
Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser claimed the event was planned and authorities found no additional involvement. Washington, D.C., police said at least one Guard member shot back during the ambush, but it’s unclear if the military or cops hit the suspect.
Witnesses said it was horrifying. People in nearby cars and on the streets heard gunfire and saw people fleeing as emergency vehicles arrived. Some said cops were CPR-ing an injured Guardsman while securing the situation.
Months of legal and political battles over National Guard unit use put the city at danger. Many West Virginia Guard men visited D.C. in August. Many had postings extended till year-end.
After the event, the Trump administration sent 500 National Guard troops to the capital. Pete Hegseth, Defense Secretary, said the president moved swiftly after hearing about the tragedy. One unit of 2,200 soldiers guards the city.
Trump said the criminal “will pay a very steep price.” He visited Florida for Thanksgiving. Everyone should support the police and army, he urged. He praised the Guard.
Vice President JD Vance addressed the shooting and requested prayers for Kentucky’s wounded warriors. He recommended against rash conclusions because the police don’t know the crime’s reason.
After the incident, National Guard Bureau chief General Steven Nordhaus changed his holiday plans to meet with troops in D.C. He called the shooting “pointless act of violence” and defended heavy-duty Guards.
On site, Secret Service and ATF agents collected evidence for hours. A helicopter landing on the National Mall during the emergency response showed its seriousness.
A federal court is probing why the National Guard sent troops to D.C. A recent ruling ordered them to leave, but they had 21 days to appeal. The capital has numerous police, and Wednesday’s shooting may increase them.
Police recommend being cool during investigations. They also said the community is safe. The event has generated worries about public safety workers’ dress and local street security.
Doctors are stabilizing two injured Guard members, so their status hasn’t changed since Wednesday night. The government promised more info as they get it.
Sources
Associated Press
Statements from District of Columbia officials
Statements from federal law enforcement agencies
Comments from U.S. government officials
