The suspect in national guard shooting was identified on Wednesday as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national who was injured and taken into custody after the attack near the White House. The incident left two West Virginia National Guard members critically wounded and prompted a sweeping federal response.
Table of Contents
Latest Confirmed Details From the Investigation
Officials confirmed that the shooting occurred near Farragut West metro station, a short distance from the White House. The area was placed under heavy lockdown as emergency responders and federal agents secured the scene.
Multiple eyewitness videos captured the aftermath, showing law enforcement tackling the wounded gunman moments after the attack.
Authorities report that the two service members remain hospitalized in critical condition. Their identities have not been released publicly, but both are members of a 300-person West Virginia National Guard deployment assigned to security duties in Washington.
Identifying the Shooter
Lakanwal entered the United States in September 2021 and was living in the country legally. Investigators say he acted alone, and so far, no confirmed motive has been identified. The FBI is treating the situation as a possible act of terrorism, though no ideological ties or communications have been verified at this time.
He was shot during the confrontation and transported to a hospital, where he remains under guard. Federal authorities confirmed that he was subdued quickly by both police and nearby National Guard members who responded immediately to the attack.
Where the Investigation Stands Now
As of today:
- The shooter is alive and hospitalized.
- No motive has been confirmed.
- No additional suspects are being pursued.
- Federal agencies continue to search his digital records and travel history.
- The attack is being handled as a high-level national security incident.
A processing error during an FBI press briefing also drew attention when Director Kash Patel mistakenly announced a manhunt for the shooter, not realizing the suspect had already been apprehended and hospitalized. The agency later clarified the misunderstanding.
Federal and Local Response
Increased Federal Security Measures
The shooting triggered immediate reinforcement of federal security efforts across Washington. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth approved the deployment of an additional 500 National Guard troops to the capital following the incident.
The move came amid ongoing legal scrutiny surrounding prior deployments ordered under public safety directives. Despite those challenges, federal authorities emphasized the urgency of strengthening the security perimeter during the investigation.
Political Leaders Respond
Political leaders across the spectrum issued statements expressing support for the injured service members and condemning the violence.
- President Donald Trump called the attacker an “animal” and promised full accountability once investigators complete their review.
- Vice President JD Vance publicly called for prayers for the wounded.
- D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser stated that early indications suggest the attack was targeted, though investigators have not confirmed whether the shooter planned the assault well in advance.
Public Reaction and Downtown Disruption
The busy downtown area surrounding the metro station remained cordoned off for several hours as investigators processed evidence. The proximity to the White House created heightened public concern, and commuters were rerouted away from the scene.
Residents described the area as heavily saturated with law enforcement, helicopters, and armored vehicles throughout the day. Businesses in the vicinity temporarily closed or limited access while officials conducted their investigation.
Profile of the Injured National Guard Members
The two wounded soldiers were among the West Virginia National Guard personnel deployed to support ongoing security assignments in D.C.
Governor Patrick Morrisey initially misstated their conditions on social media but later clarified that both remain alive and under intensive medical care.
Medical staff have not released detailed updates, but officials indicate that both soldiers suffered significant gunshot injuries and are receiving continuous treatment.
What Is Known About the Shooter’s Actions
Timeline of the Incident
| Time (Approx.) | Event |
|---|---|
| Early morning | Shooter approaches area near Farragut West station |
| Shortly after | Gunman opens fire, injuring two National Guard members |
| Minutes later | Law enforcement exchanges fire, shooter is hit |
| Following confrontation | Shooter is subdued and taken into custody |
| After scene secured | White House area placed under temporary lockdown |
Videos captured by bystanders show pandemonium as Secret Service agents and National Guard members moved in swiftly after shots were fired. The rapid response is credited with preventing additional injuries.
Public Safety Questions Moving Forward
The incident has led to renewed scrutiny of:
- Security protocols for National Guard deployments
- Vetting procedures for individuals entering high-security zones
- The broader public safety posture in Washington
While the investigation remains active, officials emphasize that there is no ongoing threat to the public. Law enforcement continues reviewing the shooter’s background to determine what led to the attack and whether warning signs were overlooked.
Use of the Key Term in Context
As investigators continue analyzing evidence, discussions remain centered on how the suspect in national guard shooting carried out the attack without prior detection. The ongoing review aims to shed light on the timeline, his movements before the shooting, and any indicators authorities may have missed.
The Road Ahead for the Investigation
Over the next several days, investigators are expected to:
- Conduct full forensic analysis of the shooter’s firearm
- Review surveillance footage from surrounding buildings and transit areas
- Interview witnesses who were nearby at the time
- Continue collecting statements from National Guard personnel in the area
- Evaluate whether the attack meets federal criteria for terrorism charges
The FBI, Secret Service, Metropolitan Police Department, and Department of Defense remain actively engaged in the investigation. More details are anticipated as the shooter is stabilized medically and can undergo questioning.
Stay connected in the comments below and share your thoughts as updates continue to unfold.