In a shocking development near the residence of the world's most powerful leader, President Donald Trump, a shooting erupted just a short distance from the White House in Washington D.C. This alarming incident left three people injured, including two brave National Guard members. Happening at around 2:30 PM local time, the injured guards were rushed to separate hospitals for immediate care.
Source: aajtak
Streets were cordoned off, with numerous police vehicles and ambulances responding as investigative teams sprang into action. Eyewitnesses reported a swift and formidable security perimeter around the vicinity, barring any entry.
The FBI's Washington Field Office confirmed that they are collaborating with local law enforcement to investigate this grave incident involving two National Guard members. Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, no additional information can be disclosed at this moment.
Authorities have refrained from commenting on the motive behind this shooting. The gravity of such an event occurring at a location of high significance has led to cautious information sharing by the investigative agencies.
Initial reports suggest that the perpetrator is of Afghan nationality, yet this remains unverified. Nonetheless, the FBI is looking into the incident as a potential act of terrorism.
The individual responsible for firing upon the two National Guard members has been identified. According to law enforcement, the suspect is not a resident of the Washington area. Currently detained, the suspect is being interrogated, while officials continue to uncover the motive behind this assault.
This incident unfolded just a day before the widely celebrated 'Thanksgiving Day' in the United States, held annually on November 27.
White House Spokesperson Caroline Leavitt stated that “The President has been briefed.” While Donald Trump remains at his Palm Beach resort ahead of the Thanksgiving break, Vice President J.D. Vance is currently in Kentucky.
Trump’s Message: Perpetrator of the National Guard Attack Will Face Severe Penalty
Donald Trump took to Truth Social to express that the person responsible for shooting the two National Guard members, causing them severe injuries resulting in separate hospital admissions, is also wounded. Trump harshly condemned the act and warned of severe consequences for the 'animal' responsible.
Trump wrote, “Salute to our great National Guard, military, and all law enforcement agencies. These are truly remarkable individuals. As President of the United States, I, along with everyone in the Presidential Office, stand with you.”
“Prayers for the Troops” - U.S. Homeland Security Secretary’s Appeal
U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Cristy Noem urged everyone via an X post to pray for the two National Guard members injured earlier in Washington D.C. due to the shooting.
Noem reported that Homeland Security is actively gathering information related to this incident in partnership with local law enforcement agencies.
Deployment of 2,200 National Guards in Washington, 500 More Called Following Shooting
Before this shooting, about 2,200 National Guard troops were stationed in Washington D.C., including personnel from Louisiana, Mississippi, Ohio, South Carolina, West Virginia, Georgia, and Alabama.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth revealed that following the shooting, President Trump has ordered the deployment of an additional 500 National Guard troops to Washington.
