Targeted Attack Wounds Two National Guard Members Near White House in D.C.; Suspect in Custody, Investigation Underway

Targeted Attack Wounds Two National Guard Members Near White House in D.C.

In a shocking incident near the White House, two West Virginia National Guard members sustained injuries during what Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has officially categorized as a "targeted" attack. The perpetrator, who was also shot, has been apprehended and taken into custody, authorities confirmed on Wednesday, November 26, 2025.

Details of the Incident

The violent confrontation unfolded around 2:15 p.m. Jeffrey Carroll, Executive Assistant Chief of the Washington Metropolitan Police Department, detailed at a press conference that a gunman unexpectedly appeared from a corner and unleashed gunfire upon the Guard members, who were actively engaged in patrol duties. Quick-thinking nearby Guard personnel swiftly intervened, successfully subduing the assailant.

All three individuals — the two injured Guard members and the shooter — were subsequently transported to a local hospital for medical attention. Authorities have yet to confirm who fired the shot that incapacitated the gunman, and a motive for the attack remains undetermined.

Official Reactions and Response

Mayor Bowser conveyed her resolute stance on X (formerly Twitter), affirming that the individual responsible would face prosecution "to the full extent of the law." Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, acknowledging the "critically wounded" status of the Guard members, revealed plans to dispatch an additional 500 Guard troops to D.C. at the express request of President Trump. Hegseth emphasized, "This will only stiffen our resolve to ensure we make Washington, D.C. safe and beautiful."

President Trump, who was in Florida at the time, also weighed in on Truth Social, describing the shooter as an "animal" and warning they would "pay a very steep price."

Conflicting Reports and Ongoing Investigation

Earlier reports from West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey mistakenly stated that the Guard members had been killed, a claim he retracted less than half an hour later on X, citing "conflicting reports about the condition of our two Guard members."

The investigation is robust, with federal agencies actively involved. Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed the presence of federal agents at the scene via X, while FBI Director Kash Patel announced the bureau's engagement and assistance with the inquiry.

Context of Guard Deployment

This incident occurs against a backdrop of increased National Guard presence in the nation's capital. Over the past few months, more than 2,000 National Guard personnel, including approximately 179 from West Virginia, have been deployed to D.C. to aid in patrol and urban beautification efforts. President Trump initiated these deployments in early August, citing concerns over the city's escalating crime rate.

However, the legality of these deployments has recently been challenged; a federal judge last week issued a preliminary injunction, ordering an end to the deployment and deeming it "unlawful." This injunction has not yet taken effect, allowing the Trump administration time for an appeal.

This remains a developing story, with further updates anticipated as the investigation progresses and authorities uncover more details about the targeted attack.