Two National Guard Members Shot Near White House, Investigation Underway

Two members of the West Virginia National Guard were shot on Wednesday in a violent incident that occurred just blocks from the White House. The attack has raised significant concerns regarding security in the nation’s capital, especially as the area prepares for the holiday season.

Initial reports from Governor Patrick Morrisey indicated that the soldiers had died, but these statements were later retracted as his office acknowledged receiving “conflicting reports” about their condition. The governor’s office has not yet clarified the current status of the injured soldiers.

A suspect, who is now in custody, was also shot during the incident. Authorities stated that the suspect’s injuries are not believed to be life-threatening. A law enforcement official, who spoke to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity, indicated that surveillance footage is being reviewed as part of the investigation. According to this source, the suspect approached the troops and opened fire, leading to at least one soldier returning fire.

Details of the Incident

The shooting took place approximately two blocks northwest of the White House. Eyewitnesses reported hearing gunshots and seeing people fleeing the scene. Video footage shared on social media showed emergency responders performing CPR on one of the soldiers while treating the other on a sidewalk covered in glass.

Emergency medical responders swiftly transported all three individuals involved, including the suspect, to a local hospital, as confirmed by Vito Maggiolo, the public information officer for the DC Fire and Emergency Services.

Witness Stacy Walters described the scene, noting the contrast between the beautiful day and the shocking violence. “Who would do this, especially as we’re getting ready for the holidays?” she asked, reflecting the sentiments of many who were in the area at the time.

Government Response and Security Concerns

The presence of the National Guard in Washington, D.C., has been a contentious issue, particularly in light of the current administration’s approach to crime in the city. Over 300 members of the West Virginia National Guard were deployed to the capital in August, and last week, around 160 volunteers extended their deployment through the end of the year.

Local and federal law enforcement agencies, including the Secret Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, were deployed to the scene shortly after the shooting. Police tape cordoned off the area while helicopters hovered overhead, further emphasizing the gravity of the situation.

In a statement, President Donald Trump, who is currently in Florida, condemned the violence, declaring that the “animal” responsible would face severe consequences. He expressed his support for the National Guard and law enforcement, stating, “God bless our Great National Guard, and all of our Military and Law Enforcement.”

Vice President JD Vance also weighed in, urging people of faith to pray for the injured soldiers. He highlighted the sacrifices made by military personnel, stating, “Our soldiers are the sword and the shield of the United States of America.”

Local leaders, including Mayor Muriel Bowser, are closely monitoring the situation. Bowser had been attending a Thanksgiving event earlier in the day before addressing the media regarding her decision not to seek reelection.

The incident has reignited discussions about the deployment of National Guard troops in the capital, particularly following a federal judge’s recent ruling to end the deployment. This ruling has been temporarily stayed for 21 days, allowing the administration time to appeal or remove the troops.

This shooting incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by those in uniform and raises questions about the ongoing security measures in place in the nation’s capital. As investigations continue, the focus remains on the condition of the injured soldiers and the motives behind this unsettling act of violence.