Washington, D.C. — Two members of the National Guard were critically wounded Wednesday after being shot near the White House in what authorities describe as a deliberate and unexpected attack. The shooting has triggered a multiagency investigation involving federal and local law enforcement.
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the severity of the situation during a brief press statement, noting that both service members remain hospitalized with life-threatening injuries. “Our thoughts are with these Guardsmen and their families,” Patel said, adding that the FBI is working closely with the Metropolitan Police Department to track down the assailant.
Police: Evidence Points to a Lone Gunman
Metropolitan Police Executive Assistant Chief Jeffery Carroll told reporters that early findings suggest a single shooter was responsible. Law enforcement officials said the two Guardsmen were conducting a routine patrol near a federal security perimeter when the gunman suddenly emerged from around a corner and opened fire without warning.
“The individual approached from an angle that gave the officers little reaction time,” Carroll explained. “This appears to have been a calculated ambush.”
Rapid Response and Search for the Shooter
Emergency crews arrived within minutes and transported the wounded Guardsmen to a nearby trauma center. Authorities have not yet released their identities pending family notifications.
Police and federal agents quickly established a wide security cordon, temporarily closing several streets around the incident site. K-9 teams, air support units, and tactical officers searched the area as investigators reviewed surveillance footage from surrounding government buildings and private businesses.
Officials have not disclosed whether they have identified a suspect or motive, but they emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public at this time.
Heightened Security Near Federal Buildings
The shooting occurred in an area that typically maintains a heavy security presence, given its proximity to the White House and other federal facilities. National Guard members have been deployed as part of joint operations with local police aimed at strengthening security and supporting public safety missions.
Local residents and tourists reported seeing a sudden influx of law enforcement vehicles and uniformed personnel moments after the shots were fired.
“It was chaotic for a few minutes—sirens everywhere, officers running,” said a pedestrian who witnessed the aftermath. “Then the whole block was shut down.”
Officials Call Attack ‘Deeply Concerning’
While investigators remain cautious about drawing conclusions, federal officials called the shooting a disturbing escalation in targeted violence against public safety personnel.
“These men were carrying out their duty to protect this city and the nation’s capital,” Director Patel said. “An attack on them is an attack on every American who relies on the security they provide.”
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the shooting, or who has video evidence from the area at the time, to contact the Metropolitan Police Department or the FBI tip line.
More updates are expected as investigators review evidence and interview witnesses.
