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National Guard Members Shot Near White House, Trump Orders Additional Troops
Two West Virginia National Guard members were critically wounded Wednesday in what officials described as a “targeted shooting” just blocks from the White House, prompting the Trump administration to deploy additional troops to the nation’s capital.
FBI Director Kash Patel and Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser confirmed the Guard members were hospitalized in critical condition following the brazen attack. Initial reports from West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey incorrectly stated the troops had died, but his office later clarified they were receiving “conflicting reports” about their condition.
Law enforcement officials said a suspect was taken into custody at the scene and also suffered non-life-threatening gunshot wounds. According to anonymous sources familiar with the investigation, surveillance footage suggests the suspect approached the soldiers and drew a weapon before at least one of the Guard members returned fire.
“Investigators are trying to determine the gunman’s motive, including whether the suspect was targeting the troops for any specific reason,” a law enforcement official told The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.
The shooting occurred approximately two blocks northwest of the White House in broad daylight. Witness Stacy Walters, who was in a nearby vehicle, reported hearing two gunshots followed by people fleeing the area. “It’s such a beautiful day. Who would do this? And we’re getting ready for the holidays?” she said.
In response to the attack, President Donald Trump ordered an additional 500 National Guard members to Washington, D.C., bringing the total deployment to over 2,600 troops. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the president personally requested the reinforcements.
“The ‘animal’ who shot the guardsmen will pay a very steep price,” Trump wrote on Truth Social from Florida, where he is spending the Thanksgiving holiday. “God bless our Great National Guard, and all our Military and Law Enforcement. These are truly Great People!”
The incident comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding the National Guard’s presence in Washington, D.C. In August, Trump issued an emergency order federalizing the local police force and deploying Guard members from eight states and the District of Columbia. Although the emergency order expired after a month, the troops remained in place.
Last week, a federal judge ordered an end to the deployment but stayed her ruling for 21 days to allow the administration time to either withdraw the troops or appeal the decision. The Trump administration has justified the military presence as necessary to combat what officials describe as escalating crime in the capital.
More than 300 West Virginia National Guard members were initially sent to Washington in August. Approximately 160 of them recently volunteered to extend their deployment through the end of the year, while others returned to West Virginia about a week ago.
Vice President JD Vance, speaking from Fort Campbell, Kentucky, asked for prayers for the wounded Guard members. “I think it’s a somber reminder that soldiers, whether they’re active duty, reserve or National Guard, our soldiers are the sword and the shield of the United States of America,” Vance said during a Thanksgiving message to troops.
The scene of the shooting was quickly secured by multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Secret Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. National Guard troops stood watch as police tape cordoned off the area, and at least one helicopter landed on the National Mall.
Since their deployment, National Guard members have been tasked with patrolling neighborhoods, transportation hubs, and other locations throughout Washington. Their duties have included highway checkpoints, trash collection, and security at sporting events—assignments that have fueled debate about the appropriate role of military personnel in domestic policing.
As the investigation continues, officials have not released the identities of the wounded Guard members or the suspect, nor have they provided further details about potential motives for the attack.
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9 Comments
This is a concerning incident. Targeting National Guard members is unacceptable. I hope the wounded soldiers make a full recovery. Increased security measures may be needed to protect those serving to maintain order and public safety.
Agreed. Attacks on our service members cannot be tolerated. Law enforcement must thoroughly investigate the shooter’s motive and hold them accountable.
Attacks on our National Guard members are unacceptable. I’m glad the suspect was apprehended, but a thorough investigation is needed to determine the motive and prevent future incidents. The safety of our troops must be the top priority.
Well said. Our National Guard plays a vital role in protecting our communities. Their security and wellbeing should be of the utmost concern.
I’m curious to learn more about the details surrounding this shooting incident. What could have motivated such a brazen attack on National Guard members? Transparency and a thorough investigation will be crucial.
Good point. Understanding the shooter’s motives and preventing similar attacks in the future will be key. Vigilance and swift action are needed to protect our troops and citizens.
This is a concerning development. I hope the wounded National Guard members make a full recovery. Increased security measures seem warranted to safeguard those who serve to maintain public order.
The deployment of additional National Guard troops to DC is a prudent move to bolster security and prevent further violence. Protecting our public servants should be a top priority.
Absolutely. The safety of our National Guard and all law enforcement personnel must be safeguarded as they carry out their duties.