Two National Guard Members Wounded in Shooting Near White House

Two members of the West Virginia National Guard were shot on November 22, 2023, just blocks from the White House in Washington, D.C. The incident occurred during their deployment to the capital, raising significant concerns about security and safety in the area. Initial reports indicated that both soldiers had died; however, Governor Patrick Morrisey later clarified that his office was “receiving conflicting reports” regarding their condition.

Law enforcement officials confirmed that a suspect was in custody and sustained injuries that were not life-threatening. According to a law enforcement source who spoke on condition of anonymity, the suspect approached the soldiers and opened fire. At least one of the troops reportedly returned fire during the exchange.

Investigators are currently reviewing surveillance footage to determine the suspect’s motive and whether the attack was targeted specifically at the National Guard members. The shooting took place roughly two blocks northwest of the White House, a location that has become a focal point for heightened security measures.

Witnesses reported a chaotic scene following the gunfire. Social media videos showed first responders performing CPR on one of the soldiers while treating the other on a sidewalk covered in glass. Vito Maggiolo, public information officer for the D.C. Fire and Emergency Services, stated that all three individuals involved in the shooting were transported to a hospital for treatment.

Stacy Walters, who was nearby at the time of the shooting, described hearing two gunshots and witnessing people fleeing the area. “It’s such a beautiful day. Who would do this, and we’re getting ready for the holidays?” she remarked, highlighting the shocking nature of the incident.

The presence of the National Guard in Washington, D.C., has been a contentious issue lately, particularly amid debates surrounding the use of military personnel to address rising crime rates. In August, more than 300 members of the West Virginia National Guard were deployed to the capital, and a portion of those troops, about 160, volunteered to extend their mission until the end of the year.

Local law enforcement cordoned off the shooting scene as emergency vehicles filled the streets and helicopters hovered overhead. The Secret Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were also present to assist in the investigation.

In response to the violence, President Donald Trump, who was in Florida for Thanksgiving, expressed his outrage on social media, stating that the “animal” responsible for the attack “will pay a very steep price.” He extended his support to the National Guard and law enforcement, saying, “God bless our Great National Guard, and all of our Military and Law Enforcement. These are truly Great People.”

Vice President JD Vance also addressed the incident, urging “everybody who’s a person of faith” to pray for the wounded Guardsmen. He acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the shooter’s motives and emphasized the vital role that military personnel play in safeguarding the nation.

Local leaders are closely monitoring the situation, with Mayor Muriel Bowser having just held a news conference to discuss her decision not to seek reelection earlier that day. The deployment of the National Guard had been a controversial topic, particularly following an emergency order issued by Trump in August that federalized local law enforcement and dispatched troops to Washington.

As investigations continue, authorities are working to piece together the events that led to this violent act, which has reignited discussions about safety and security in the nation’s capital.