2 National Guards shot near White House; shooter in custody
What's the story
Two members of the West Virginia National Guard were critically injured in a targeted shooting near the White House on Wednesday. The incident took place at Farragut West metro station, about two blocks from the presidential residence. Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser confirmed that a single gunman was responsible for this brazen attack and has since been taken into custody.
Investigation update
Shooter apprehended, motive still unknown
The shooter, reportedly an Afghan national who entered the United States in 2021, was quickly subdued by other National Guard members and law enforcement. However, the motive behind this targeted attack remains unclear. West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey initially announced that both soldiers had died in the incident but later corrected himself after confirmation from authorities.
Presidential response
President Trump condemns attack, promises justice
President Donald Trump, who was at his Florida golf club during the incident, condemned the attack and called the shooter an "animal." He promised that the suspect would "pay a very steep price" for his actions. "The animal that shot the two National Guardsmen, with both being critically wounded, and now in two separate hospitals, is also severely wounded, but regardless, will pay a very steep price," he wrote on Truth Social.
Security measures
Additional troops deployed to ensure safety
The attack comes amid ongoing controversy over his decision to deploy National Guard troops across several cities as part of a nationwide crime crackdown. In light of the shooting, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the deployment of 500 more troops to Washington. This brings the total number of deployed National Guard members in the city to 2,500. Hegseth said this move would "stiffen our resolve" to make Washington, D.C., safe and beautiful.