Two National Guard shot near the White House on Wednesday afternoon in a targeted attack that left the nation on edge and federal officials racing to secure downtown Washington, D.C. The two injured service members from the West Virginia National Guard remain in critical condition as authorities continue investigating the motive behind the violent ambush.
Table of Contents
Where the Shooting Took Place
The attack happened around 2:15 p.m. at the intersection of 17th and I Streets NW, a busy corridor just steps from Farragut Square and within walking distance of the White House security perimeter. The guardsmen were completing a routine patrol when the gunman emerged from a corner and opened fire.
The rapid gunfire sent pedestrians scrambling for cover as officers in the area immediately responded. The intersection quickly became the center of a large emergency operation as officials blocked streets and secured the crime scene.
Condition of the Wounded Guardsmen
Both soldiers were rushed to nearby trauma centers. Early confusion about their status circulated for several hours, but federal and state officials clarified by evening that the two soldiers were alive and hospitalized in critical condition. Their identities have not been disclosed.
Medical teams continue to monitor both guardsmen closely. No additional public updates on their medical progress were released by midday today.
Identity of the Suspect
The suspected gunman has been identified as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal. He was wounded during the confrontation and taken into custody shortly afterward. Officials reported that he remains hospitalized but is expected to survive.
Investigators confirmed that he entered the United States in 2021 under a resettlement program linked to the Afghanistan withdrawal. At this stage, no official motive has been released, and investigators have not confirmed any affiliation with extremist groups. The suspect is being held under armed guard as federal agents conduct interviews and review evidence.
Immediate Security Response
Because the shooting occurred so close to the White House, federal and local agencies initiated an immediate lockdown of the surrounding streets. Government buildings in the vicinity took emergency precautions, and police expanded the security perimeter to ensure there were no additional threats.
Helicopters arrived in the area within minutes. Officers from multiple agencies coordinated street closures stretching several blocks, and Metro stations nearby were temporarily restricted. Emergency medical personnel treated the guardsmen and prepared them for rapid transport.
By late afternoon, the scene was stabilized, and officials confirmed there was no ongoing risk to the public.
Why the Guard Was Deployed in D.C.
The West Virginia National Guard had been stationed in Washington, D.C., as part of a federal deployment aimed at strengthening public safety in high-traffic federal zones. Their duties included helping with patrols, assisting local law enforcement, and supporting emergency response operations.
Following the attack, federal officials authorized an additional 500 National Guard troops to reinforce security throughout the capital. These troops will be distributed across key locations, including areas surrounding major government buildings.
Eyewitness Reactions and Public Disruption
People in the neighborhood described a sudden eruption of gunfire followed by chaos as officers rushed in from multiple directions. Many office workers and commuters were ushered into nearby buildings while law enforcement secured the area.
Public transportation in the district experienced delays, and many nearby streets remained closed for hours. For those working downtown, the attack served as a stark reminder of how quickly the well-patrolled federal district can experience sudden violence.
Federal Investigation Status
Key Verified Points From Investigators:
- The shooting is being treated as a targeted attack.
- No additional suspects are being sought at this time.
- Investigators are exploring the possibility of ideological or anti-federal motivations.
- The suspect’s devices, travel records, and communications have been seized for forensic analysis.
- Counterterrorism units are actively reviewing any potential links or patterns in the suspect’s background.
Officials noted that the investigation is still in its early stages, and significant new details are expected as evidence is analyzed.
Heightened Security Measures Across the Capital
In the hours following the attack, Washington, D.C., saw a noticeable surge in visible security:
- Increased National Guard patrols
- Additional law enforcement positioned near federal buildings
- Reinforced security barriers and restricted access points
- Expanded aerial surveillance
Officials stressed that these measures are preventative, not in response to any continuing threat.
Reactions From State and Federal Leaders
Leaders from West Virginia expressed deep concern for the injured guardsmen and acknowledged earlier confusion surrounding their condition. Federal officials condemned the attack as a violent assault on service members performing lawful duties in support of national security.
Both state and federal authorities reaffirmed their commitment to providing support for the families and ensuring thorough investigative transparency as verified information becomes available.
Key Facts Summarized
| Detail | Current Verified Status |
|---|---|
| Guardsmen injured | Two, both critical |
| Deployment | West Virginia National Guard |
| Location | 17th & I Streets NW, near the White House |
| Suspect | In custody, hospitalized |
| Motive | Not yet established |
| Security response | Additional 500 Guard troops being deployed |
| Public threat | No ongoing threat confirmed |
What To Expect Next
Authorities will continue to release updates as more information becomes confirmed through forensic testing, interviews, and digital investigation. The area where the attack took place remains under heightened monitoring, and officials continue to urge anyone with firsthand footage or observations to report them.
This attack has renewed discussions on the use of the National Guard in domestic operations and raised new questions about protecting service members deployed on public safety missions in high-profile zones.
With both guardsmen still fighting for their lives, the nation waits for more clarity on why this attack occurred and what it may mean for security readiness moving forward.
Share your thoughts below and check back for the newest verified updates as this developing story continues.