On Wednesday, November 26, 2025, two National Guard soldiers were shot in what officials called a targeted ambush just blocks from the White House. The incident prompted a lockdown of the presidential complex as law enforcement from multiple federal and city agencies swarmed the area.
The soldiers were part of a high-visibility patrol around 2:15 p.m. ET near the corner of 17th and I streets when the suspect rounded a corner and opened fire, Assistant Chief Jeff Carroll of the Metropolitan Police said. After an exchange of gunfire, other Guard members subdued the suspect, who suffered gunshot wounds and is now in custody.
Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Kash Patel said both wounded soldiers were in critical condition at local hospitals. "This is a targeted attack," Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser told reporters, as officials worked to determine the assailant's motive.
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey initially posted on X that the victims, whom he believed to be members of the Guard from his state, had died, but later cited conflicting reports about their condition. The identities of the suspect and the soldiers have not been released.
President Donald Trump was at his Palm Beach resort for the Thanksgiving holiday, while Vice President J.D. Vance was in Kentucky. In a social media post, Trump called the suspected shooter an "animal" who would "pay a very steep price" and praised the National Guard for their service.
Witnesses Describe Chaotic Scene
The shooting unfolded near Farragut Square, a popular lunch spot adorned with holiday wreaths and bows. Pedestrians fled in panic as gunfire rang out amid fast-casual restaurants and metro stations.
Mike Ryan, 55, was on his way to buy lunch when he heard the first shots. He ran for cover and later saw two Guard members on the ground with bystanders attempting resuscitation, while others pinned the suspect to the pavement.
Emma McDonald recalled seeing one soldier carried away on a stretcher, his chest connected to an automated compression device.
National Guard Presence in Washington
The Guard has patrolled Washington since August, after being deployed as part of a crime and immigration crackdown targeting Democratic-led cities. About 2,200 troops from the District of Columbia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Ohio, South Carolina, West Virginia, Georgia and Alabama were on duty as of Wednesday.
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said President Trump requested 500 additional Guard soldiers following the attack. Officials say the investigation is ongoing as security remains heightened in the capital.
Reference(s):
National Guard soldiers shot in 'targeted' attack near White House
cgtn.com
