WASHINGTON, D.C. — A shooting in the nation’s capital on Wednesday afternoon left two members of the National Guard wounded, authorities confirmed. The incident occurred in the vicinity of the White House, prompting a large-scale law enforcement response.
According to officials, gunfire erupted near the intersection of 17th and H Streets NW shortly after 2:20 p.m. The location is within two blocks of the White House perimeter. The two injured service members were transported to area hospitals for treatment. Preliminary reports indicate one sustained a serious head wound.
A suspect was apprehended at the scene and is also receiving medical care for non-life-threatening injuries. The individual is now in police custody. The scene was secured, and the public was advised to avoid the area as an investigation commenced.
In the wake of the attack, a coordinated response unfolded involving multiple agencies, including the Metropolitan Police Department, the U.S. Secret Service, and federal law enforcement. Emergency vehicles converged on the location, and a helicopter was observed landing on the National Mall.
A statement from the Department of Homeland Security acknowledged the incident, noting that officials are working with local authorities to gather details. The department requested public support for the wounded guardsmen.
President Donald Trump, who was not in Washington at the time, addressed the shooting via a written statement. He described the assailant as having inflicted critical wounds on the service members and vowed that the individual would face significant consequences. The President also expressed his support for the National Guard and law enforcement personnel.
The motive behind the attack remains under investigation. Authorities have not released further details regarding the suspect’s identity or the circumstances leading to the gunfire.
