In a shocking act of violence that has gripped Washington, D.C., two West Virginia National Guard members were ambushed and shot while on patrol near the White House this afternoon. The incident, described by officials as a deliberate “targeted attack,” has prompted a swift law enforcement response, a White House lockdown, and vows of justice from the highest levels of government. As the nation processes this brazen assault on military personnel, questions swirl about motive, security protocols, and the broader implications for public safety in the capital.
This developing story underscores the heightened tensions in D.C. amid ongoing National Guard deployments, but authorities emphasize that the victims are fighting for their lives, and the suspect is under guard in a hospital.
What Happened: Timeline of the Shooting Near White House
The attack unfolded around 2:15 p.m. ET on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at the corner of 17th and I Streets NW – just a few blocks from the White House and near the bustling Farragut West Metro station. The two uniformed National Guard members, part of a high-visibility patrol detail, were reportedly caught off guard when a lone suspect emerged from around a corner, raised a firearm, and opened fire in what police described as an ambush.
Eyewitnesses painted a chaotic scene: Pedestrians scattered as gunfire echoed through downtown D.C. One witness, Mike Ryan, 55, recounted hearing shots while heading to lunch and seeing two Guard members on the ground, with bystanders attempting resuscitation on one. Another, Emma McDonald, described watching a Guardsman being stretchered away with his head covered in blood and an automated compression device on his chest. Video evidence reviewed by Washington, D.C., police supports the narrative of a single gunman, with no indication of additional suspects.
The victims – identified only as members of the West Virginia National Guard – returned fire and, with assistance from nearby Guard personnel and law enforcement, subdued the attacker in a brief exchange. The suspect, who has not been publicly identified, was also shot and is in severe condition at a local hospital, under heavy guard.
Victims’ Condition: From Feared Fatalities to Critical Care
Initial reports sent shockwaves when West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey posted on social media announcing that the two Guardsmen had “lost their lives in the service of their country.” However, within 20 minutes, Morrisey retracted the statement, citing “conflicting reports” and shifting to prayers for the injured service members and their families.
As of late afternoon, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser confirmed at a press conference that both victims remain in critical condition at area hospitals, receiving treatment for multiple gunshot wounds. FBI Director Kash Patel echoed this, noting the soldiers’ fight for survival and calling for prayers.
Official Response: Lockdown, Investigation, and Swift Justice
The shooting triggered an immediate lockdown at the White House – though President Donald Trump was not present, vacationing at his Palm Beach resort ahead of Thanksgiving. Federal and local agencies, including the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), FBI, and Secret Service, swarmed the area near Farragut Square, securing the scene within moments.
MPD Assistant Chief Jeffery Carroll detailed the rapid takedown: “They were able to, after some back and forth, able to subdue the individual and bring them into custody within moments.” Mayor Bowser labeled it a “targeted shooting,” stressing that one individual appeared to zero in on the Guardsmen. No motive has been established, and investigators believe the suspect acted alone.
From the top: President Trump took to Truth Social, branding the attacker an “animal” who “will pay a very steep price,” while praising the National Guard as “truly Great People.” Vice President JD Vance, speaking from Fort Campbell, Kentucky, called the Guardsmen the “sword and shield” of America and urged prayers. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced an immediate deployment of 500 additional National Guard troops to D.C. at Trump’s request, vowing it would “stiffen our resolve” against violence.