Two National Guard soldiers from West Virginia are fighting for their lives after being shot in a targeted attack just two blocks from the White House on Wednesday afternoon. Authorities say the soldiers were on a high-visibility patrol near the busy intersection of 17th and I Streets NW when a lone gunman opened fire without warning.
According to the Metropolitan Police Department, the suspect “came around the corner” and immediately began shooting at the soldiers, prompting nearby National Guard members to rush toward the scene. They subdued the attacker, who had also been shot, and held him down until law enforcement arrived moments later.
The Department of Homeland Security identified the suspect as Rahmanullah Lakamal, an Afghan national who entered the United States in September 2021. His immigration status remains unclear. President Donald Trump, speaking from his Mar-a-Lago residence, condemned the incident as “an act of evil” and vowed the suspect would “pay the steepest possible price.”
The shooting triggered a brief ground stop at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport as authorities secured the area. Witnesses described chaos at the scene, with shattered glass, panicked pedestrians, and heavy security presence.
Initial reports suggested the soldiers had died, but West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey later clarified that there were “conflicting reports” regarding their condition. Both remain hospitalized in critical condition.
FBI Director Kash Patel said the attack was “brazen” and is being investigated as a targeted act of violence. A motive has not yet been determined, and the suspect is reportedly not cooperating with investigators.
Following the incident, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered an additional 500 National Guard troops to Washington DC. Nearly 2,200 Guard members are already deployed in the capital as part of efforts to address rising safety concerns.
As the investigation continues, leaders across the country have urged prayers for the injured soldiers and called for calm ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.
