On Wednesday afternoon, two members of the West Virginia National Guard were shot and killed near the Farragut West subway station, which is only a few blocks from the White House in downtown Washington, DC.
Both security guards are currently in critical condition, and it’s reported that the suspect has been taken into custody with injuries that are not life-threatening. However, the identities of all three individuals involved have not yet been released.
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey initially stated that both Guardsmen had died from their injuries but later mentioned that there were “conflicting reports” about their status.
He expressed his support, saying, “Our prayers are with these brave service members, their families, and the entire Guard community.”
Meanwhile, President Trump, who is currently in Florida, issued a critique of the suspect. He remarked, “The individual who shot the two National Guardsmen was also seriously injured and is presently in two different hospitals but will face serious consequences regardless. God bless our great National Guard and all the military and law enforcement. They’re truly exceptional people. As President, I stand with you!”
In response to the incident, Secretary of the Army Pete Hegseth mentioned that President Trump has requested 500 additional National Guard troops to be dispatched to Washington, D.C.
“This only further strengthens our resolve to keep Washington, D.C., safe and beautiful,” he stated during a press briefing.
FBI Director Kash Patel announced that the incident would be treated as an assault against federal law enforcement officials. He emphasized that the FBI would lead the investigation in coordination with other agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security, and noted the support from Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser, who accompanied him at the press conference.
Additionally, Metropolitan Police Chief Jeff Carroll confirmed that there are no other suspects involved apart from the one currently in custody.
“At this time, there is no indication of additional suspects. Only one individual was involved in this situation, and they were injured during the encounter, necessitating hospitalization,” he clarified.
