Two National Guard Members Shot in Attack Near the White House

WASHINGTON, Nov 27: Two National Guard members were shot in what authorities described as a targeted ambush just two blocks from the White House on Wednesday. Investigators say they have found no clear motive for the attack.

Jeffrey Carroll, an executive assistant DC police chief, said video footage showed the gunman “came around the corner” and opened fire immediately at the troops. DC Mayor Muriel Bowser called it “a targeted shooting.”

Initial confusion over the victims’ condition erupted when West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey incorrectly announced the deaths of the two Guard members, later retracting the statement and citing “conflicting reports.”

A suspect was taken into custody after being shot during the confrontation and is being treated for non life threatening injuries, according to a law enforcement official who spoke to AP on condition of anonymity.

Following the attack, the Trump administration ordered an additional 500 National Guard members to Washington. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said President Donald Trump personally directed the deployment. Nearly 2,200 troops were already assigned to the joint task force operating across the city.

Troops Held Down the Shooter

The shooting occurred near a metro station northwest of the White House. After the gunfire, nearby National Guard troops rushed to the scene and restrained the shooter after he was wounded, Carroll said. Investigators believe the attacker was a lone gunman.

At least one Guard member returned fire, according to a second law enforcement official.

Social media videos from the scene showed first responders giving CPR to one injured troop while treating the other on a sidewalk littered with glass.

Witnesses Describe Panic

Witness Stacy Walters said she heard two gunshots before seeing people run for cover as law enforcement flooded the area. Emma McDonald, who had just exited a metro station, sheltered in a café and later saw a gravely injured Guard member on a stretcher.

About 300 West Virginia National Guard members were deployed to Washington in August. Roughly half recently extended their deployment, while others returned home last week.

Police cordoned off the area as Secret Service, ATF agents, and National Guard troops secured the perimeter. Helicopters hovered overhead, and one aircraft landed on the National Mall during the response.

Trump Vows Punishment; Calls for Prayers

President Trump, speaking from Florida, condemned the attack, warning that the “animal” responsible “will pay a very steep price.” On Truth Social, he praised the Guard and offered support to the families.

Vice President JD Vance, addressing troops at Fort Campbell, urged Americans to pray for the injured and called the shooting a reminder of the risks faced by service members.

The deployment of National Guard troops in Washington followed Trump’s August emergency order, which federalised local police and brought in troops from multiple states. Although the order expired a month later, the troops remained. A federal judge recently ordered their removal, but placed the ruling on hold for 21 days.

Since deployment, Guard members have been tasked with patrols, checkpoints, trash collection duties, and security at sports events.