National Guard Shooting Near White House Puts DC on High Alert

Two National Guard members were shot in Washington D.C. this afternoon. The attack occurred near the White House, sending the area into lockdown. Both service members are now in critical condition following the violent incident.

Law enforcement swiftly secured the perimeter. One suspect was taken into custody and is also critically wounded.

Law Enforcement Secures Scene After Attack

The shooting happened at the Farragut West Metro station entrance. This location is just blocks from the White House complex. According to the Metropolitan Police Department, the incident unfolded around 2:20 p.m. ET.

A massive law enforcement response followed immediately. Agencies including the FBI, ATF, and U.S. Marshals assisted local police. They cordoned off the area to investigate the scene.

Both wounded Guardsmen were rushed to nearby hospitals. Their conditions were listed as critical. Authorities have not released their identities to the public yet.

Federal Leaders Respond to Critical Incident

The White House was placed on a temporary lockdown as a precaution. President Trump was at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida at the time. He was briefed on the situation by his staff.

The president issued a statement on social media shortly after. He expressed his support for the National Guard and law enforcement. “God bless our Great National Guard,” the president wrote, promising his full support.

Homeland Security officials also released statements. They confirmed a full and thorough investigation is now underway. The public was urged to avoid the area around 17th and K Streets NW.

Context of Heightened Security in the Capital

This shooting occurs during a period of increased military presence in Washington D.C. Over two thousand National Guard troops have been stationed there for months. Their deployment followed a federal takeover order from President Trump in August.

The Guard’s role was to bolster city security after periods of civil unrest. Their visible presence was meant to deter further violence. Today’s event challenges the perception of total security in the fortified city.

The investigation continues to determine the shooter’s motive. Officials are piecing together the sequence of events that led to the attack. The identity of the suspect in custody has not been disclosed.

The National Guard shooting underscores persistent security challenges in the nation’s capital. The critical condition of the service members has drawn national attention and concern. The incident will likely prompt a serious review of safety protocols for military personnel in urban environments.

Info at your fingertips

Where exactly did the National Guard shooting happen?

The shooting occurred at the entrance to the Farragut West Metro station. This station is located near 17th and K Streets NW in Washington D.C. It is situated just a few blocks from the White House.

What is the current condition of the wounded Guardsmen?

Both National Guard members are in critical condition. They were transported to separate hospitals for emergency treatment. Officials have not provided further updates on their status.

Was the suspect in the shooting arrested?

Yes, one suspect is in police custody. The suspect was also critically injured during the incident. Law enforcement has not released the suspect’s name or motive.

How did President Trump respond to the news?

President Trump was briefed on the shooting while in Florida. He issued a statement expressing support for the National Guard. He called them “truly Great People” and promised the administration’s full backing.

Why are National Guard troops stationed in Washington D.C.?

Thousands of National Guard members were deployed to the city in August. This followed a federal order to bolster security after civil unrest. Their continued presence aims to maintain order in the capital.