A suspect is in custody following a shooting that injured two National Guard members outside the White House on Wednesday (November 26). Authorities secured the area and began an immediate response.
The shooting happened near Farragut Square, a popular lunch spot just a few blocks from the White House. The park is surrounded by restaurants, cafes and two metro stations. Police and emergency vehicles responded quickly, and at least one helicopter landed on the National Mall.
Both National Guard members were critically injured and taken to separate hospitals, according to law enforcement officials who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity. The current conditions of the soldiers have not been released.
Trump’s statement
President Donald Trump responded strongly to the shooting of two National Guard members near the White House on Wednesday, posting a statement on Truth Social.
In his post, Trump described the attacker as “an animal that shot two National Guardsmen” and confirmed that both soldiers were seriously injured and hospitalized at separate facilities. He also noted that the suspect was “badly injured” and vowed accountability: “…regardless, (the suspect) will pay a very high price. God bless our Grand National Guard and all of our military and law enforcement agencies. They are truly great people. I, as President of the United States and all allies of the office of the President, are with you!”
National Guard support
Trump emphasized his support for the National Guard and law enforcement officers, praising them as “really great people” who serve and protect the nation.
Homeland Security Statement by Kristi Noem
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem also commented on the X incident: “Please join me in praying for the two National Guardsmen who were shot and killed in Washington DC a short time ago.”
FBI involvement
The FBI is assisting with the investigation. FBI Director Kash Patel wrote on X: “The FBI is involved and assisting with the investigation in Washington, DC after members of the National Guard were shot this afternoon. Please pray for them and we will update with more information as soon as possible.”
Emergency response and scene update
Emergency vehicles were seen at the scene, with at least one helicopter landing on the National Mall. The Joint D.C. Task Force confirmed it was handling the incident near the White House, but declined to specify whether members of the National Guard were involved.
The Metropolitan Police Department confirmed they were responding to the shooting but did not provide any further details. Mayoral spokeswoman Muriel Bowser said local leaders are actively monitoring the situation; the mayor was in town at the time.
The White House is monitoring the incident
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said: “The White House is aware of this tragic situation and is actively monitoring it. The President has been informed.”
Increased security in the capital
National Guard troops have been deployed in Washington since August under an emergency order issued by President Trump to address crime in the city. About 2,200 National Guard members were in town Wednesday from various states, including Louisiana, Mississippi, Ohio, South Carolina, West Virginia, Georgia and Alabama.
The shooting highlights lingering concerns about security in Washington, DC, and raises questions about the continued deployment of military forces in the city amid political and legal debates about their role.
