Washington D.C. – Two National Guard soldiers shot near White House in a targeted ambush just blocks from the presidential residence have left Washington DC on high alert. The Wednesday afternoon attack has prompted an immediate security response, with both victims fighting for their lives in separate hospitals as federal authorities investigate the shocking incident.
Shooting Unfolds Blocks From White House
The violent attack occurred around 2:15 pm local time on Wednesday near the intersection of 17th and I streets, approximately two blocks from the White House. Two West Virginia National Guard soldiers shot near White House were on duty when a lone gunman “came around the corner” and opened fire without warning, according to executive assistant DC police chief Jeffrey Carroll. The National Guard soldiers shot near White House were stationed at their post when the suspect launched what authorities are describing as an ambush-style attack.
The swift response from other Guard members at the scene led to an exchange of gunfire, ultimately resulting in the suspect being subdued and taken into custody. The attacker also sustained severe wounds during the confrontation. Streets surrounding the incident were immediately cordoned off with yellow tape as multiple law enforcement agencies descended on the scene.
Critical Condition and Emergency Response
Both National Guard soldiers shot near White House remain in critical condition at separate medical facilities, confirmed Federal Bureau of Investigation chief Kash Patel and Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser during a joint press conference. The severity of their injuries has prompted round-the-clock medical attention as doctors work to stabilize both victims.
The attack triggered immediate lockdown procedures for nearby federal buildings, including the White House and the Treasury Department. Security protocols were activated swiftly to ensure no additional threats existed in the surrounding area. Emergency responders flooded the scene within minutes, establishing a secure perimeter and beginning their preliminary investigation.
Targeted Attack With Unknown Motive
Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser characterized the incident as a “targeted shooting,” suggesting the National Guard soldiers shot near White House were deliberately selected as victims. However, the motive behind this violent attack remains unclear as investigators continue gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses.
“It appears to be a lone gunman that raised a firearm and ambushed these members of the National Guard,” Carroll stated, emphasizing that at this point, authorities have identified no other suspects. The deliberate nature of the attack has raised serious questions about security protocols and the safety of military personnel deployed in the nation’s capital.
Presidential Response and Troop Deployment
United States President Donald Trump, who was in Florida for Thanksgiving at the time of the shooting, issued a stern warning about consequences for the attacker. “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,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
Also Read: Ukraine Peace Deal: Critical Trump Claims vs European Skepticism Revealed
In direct response to the National Guard soldiers shot near White House incident, President Trump ordered the immediate deployment of 500 additional National Guard troops to Washington DC. US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth announced the reinforcement decision, stating, “If criminals want to conduct things like this — violence against America’s best — we will NEVER back down.”
Interagency Investigation Launched
Carroll confirmed that both DC Police and federal law enforcement agencies will collaborate closely to investigate the shooting. The joint investigation will examine every aspect of the attack, from the suspect’s background and possible motives to security measures in place at the time of the incident.
The coordinated law enforcement response demonstrates the seriousness with which authorities are treating this attack on military personnel in the heart of the nation’s capital.
Confusion Over Victim Status
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey initially posted on X that the National Guard soldiers shot near White House had died. However, he quickly retracted the statement minutes later, explaining that officials were “receiving conflicting reports about the condition of our two Guard members.” This confusion highlighted the chaotic nature of the immediate aftermath and the challenges in confirming accurate information during rapidly evolving situations.
Security Implications Moving Forward
The attack on National Guard soldiers shot near White House has sparked renewed discussions about security measures for military personnel deployed in civilian areas. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by service members conducting routine duties in public spaces, even in heavily secured areas of Washington DC.
As both soldiers continue fighting for their lives, the nation awaits answers about what motivated this brazen attack and how similar incidents can be prevented in the future.
