National Guard Shooting Near White House Prompts Lockdown, Afghan Suspect in Custody

Two U.S. National Guard soldiers were shot and critically wounded near the White House. The attack occurred on Wednesday afternoon just blocks from the executive mansion. An Afghan national is in custody following the violent ambush. Authorities have described the incident as a targeted shooting.

The event triggered an immediate security lockdown around the White House and Treasury Department. According to the Associated Press, the suspect entered the United States in 2021.

Details of the White House Shooting Incident

The shooting happened at around 2:15 PM local time. It occurred near the corner of 17th and I Streets NW. This location is a short distance from the White House grounds.

Two members of the West Virginia National Guard were the victims. They were posted near a metro station when the attack unfolded. An executive assistant DC police chief, Jeffrey Carroll, said the attacker “came around the corner” and opened fire.

Other Guard members present at the scene returned fire. They managed to subdue the suspect after an exchange of gunfire. The suspect was also shot during the confrontation.

Law enforcement officials told the AP the suspect’s injuries are not life-threatening. Both injured soldiers were rushed to area hospitals. Their conditions were listed as critical following the attack.

Official Response and Investigation

Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser and FBI officials confirmed the details at a press conference. They emphasized the ongoing nature of the investigation. Mayor Bowser explicitly called the assault a “targeted shooting.”

DC Police and federal law enforcement agencies are collaborating on the probe. The motive behind the attack remains unknown at this time. Authorities have stated they are not seeking any other suspects.

President Donald Trump was in Florida at the time of the incident. He responded on Truth Social, vowing the suspect would pay a “very steep price.” The President also directed the deployment of 500 additional National Guard troops to Washington DC.

This targeted attack on military personnel has intensified the ongoing debate over national security and protection for service members deployed in the capital. The investigation into the White House shooting continues as the nation watches for updates on the soldiers’ conditions.

Info at your fingertips

Where exactly did the White House shooting happen?

The shooting occurred near the corner of 17th and I Streets NW. This is approximately two blocks away from the White House. It happened close to a metro station.

What is the condition of the National Guard soldiers?

Both soldiers are in the hospital with critical injuries. Officials confirmed their status following emergency medical response. Their identities have not yet been publicly released.

Was the White House on lockdown after the shooting?

Yes, the White House and Treasury Department were placed on immediate lockdown. Security protocols were activated as a precautionary measure. The lockdown was lifted after the situation was contained.

How did President Trump respond to the attack?

President Trump called the suspect an “animal” in a social media post. He promised the individual would pay a “very steep price” for the attack. The President also authorized additional troop deployments to DC.

What do we know about the shooting suspect?

The suspect has been identified as an Afghan national. News agencies report he entered the United States in 2021. He was also injured during the exchange of gunfire with Guardsmen.

Trusted Sources: Associated Press, Reuters, Federal Bureau of Investigation, DC Metropolitan Police