Shooting in Washington, D.C. Prompts White House Lockdown

Washington, D.C. — A violent incident unfolded near the White House on Wednesday evening when two National Guard members were shot close to Farragut Square, just blocks from the presidential residence. Authorities confirmed both victims remain in critical condition, and a suspect has been taken into custody.

Incident Details

• The shooting occurred around 17th Street and I Street NW, a busy downtown area near the White House.
• Witnesses reported chaos as gunfire erupted, prompting an immediate lockdown of the White House.
• One of the Guardsmen, though unarmed, fought back by stabbing the suspect with a pocket knife, helping restrain the attacker until police arrived.
photo of DC shooting suspect :

sources from X

Victims and Suspect

• The injured Guardsmen are members of the West Virginia National Guard, deployed to assist with security in the capital.
• Initial reports mistakenly claimed the soldiers had died, but officials later clarified they remain alive though critically wounded.
• The suspect was apprehended at the scene. Federal investigators are examining the individual’s background and possible motives.

Government Response

• President Donald Trump condemned the attack, calling the shooter an “animal” and vowing severe consequences.
• Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the deployment of 500 additional National Guard troops, raising the total presence in Washington, D.C. to nearly 2,700 personnel.
• The FBI is leading the investigation, treating the incident as a possible act of terrorism.

Security Measures

Residents and visitors are being urged to avoid the downtown area near Farragut Square until authorities confirm the scene is secure. A heightened military and police presence is expected across the capital in the coming days as officials work to reassure the public and prevent further violence.