In a deeply saddening incident, two members of the West Virginia National Guard tragically lost their lives after being shot in downtown Washington, D.C., near the White House. West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey confirmed the news, expressing profound grief over the loss of these brave individuals who dedicated their lives to serving their country. “It is with great sorrow that we can confirm both members of the West Virginia National Guard who were shot earlier today in Washington, DC have passed away from their injuries,” Morrisey stated.
The Governor continued, “Our entire state grieves with their families, their loved ones, and the Guard community. West Virginia will never forget their service or their sacrifice, and we will demand full accountability for this horrific act.” The identities of the deceased, a man and a woman, have not been released, but they were confirmed to be members of the National Guard.
Law enforcement officials reported that one suspect is in custody, and the scene of the shooting has been secured. The Metropolitan Police Department confirmed that the suspect is in critical condition. Multiple agencies, including the U.S. Marshals, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the FBI, responded swiftly to the incident.
Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that her agency is collaborating with local authorities to gather further information regarding the shooting. An active shooter incident was reported at 2:20 p.m. ET at the entrance to the Farragut West Metro station, a busy area in the heart of the nation’s capital.
President Donald Trump has been briefed about the shooting, according to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. The White House is currently under lockdown as a precautionary measure. Trump, who is spending Thanksgiving at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida, expressed his condolences and support on social media. He stated, “The animal that shot the two National Guardsmen, with both being critically wounded, and now in two separate hospitals, is also severely wounded, but regardless, will pay a very steep price. God bless our Great National Guard, and all of our Military and Law Enforcement. These are truly Great People.”
The National Guard has been deployed to Washington, D.C. as part of President Trump’s federal initiative to enhance security in the city since August. Currently, there are approximately 2,188 Guard personnel assigned to the capital. This tragic event underscores the risks faced by those in service to the nation.
Vice President JD Vance addressed the incident while serving meals to soldiers and their families in Texas ahead of Thanksgiving. “We’re still learning everything. We still don’t know the motive,” Vance remarked, highlighting the ongoing investigation into the shooting.
This is a developing story, and we encourage readers to check back for updates as further information becomes available. The entire community stands in solidarity with the families of the fallen Guardsmen during this difficult time.