Two National Guard Members Shot in Ambush Just Blocks from the White House; Suspect Identified as Afghan National, Authorities Say
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Two West Virginia National Guard members deployed to the nation’s capital were critically wounded Wednesday afternoon in an ambush-style shooting just blocks from the White House, prompting a massive law-enforcement response from federal and local agencies. Officials say the attack appeared to be targeted, and the suspect — who was also shot — was quickly detained at the scene.
Officials Say Troops Were Ambushed Near Metro Station Close to the White House
Investigators reported that the shooting occurred near a metro station northwest of the White House. According to early findings, the 29-year-old suspect approached the pair of National Guard members and opened fire without warning.
Authorities reviewing surveillance video say the gunman “came around the corner” and immediately began firing at the troops. Other guard members stationed nearby heard the shots, rushed to the scene, and helped subdue the suspect after he was wounded.
Both National Guard members were transported to the hospital in critical condition, according to senior officials.
Suspect Identified; Entered U.S. Through Afghan Resettlement Program
Authorities have identified the suspect as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national who entered the United States in 2021 under the federal Operation Allies Welcome resettlement initiative. Officials continue to verify details of his background while examining potential motive.
The suspect had reportedly been living in Washington state with his family and only recently traveled to the D.C. area. Investigators have not yet confirmed why he was near the White House or whether the attack was planned in advance.
Officials emphasized that no other suspects are believed to be involved.
Federal and Local Leaders Respond; Thousands of Troops Remain Deployed in D.C.
The attack comes amid heightened scrutiny surrounding the presence of National Guard troops in Washington and other major cities. The deployment — thousands strong — has been part of an ongoing federal initiative addressing crime and public safety concerns.
Following the shooting, national leaders issued statements, with some calling for increased review of security protocols and the vetting of resettled refugees. Officials also confirmed that additional Guard personnel were ordered to Washington immediately after the attack.
Helicopters, federal agents, and uniformed personnel from multiple agencies flooded the area as investigators worked through the evening.
Witnesses Describe Panic, Rapid Police Response
People in the surrounding neighborhood reported hearing several gunshots, followed by crowds running for safety. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as first responders arrived within moments of the attack.
One witness exiting a nearby metro station said she saw a Guard member being carried on a stretcher with visible head injuries. Another described the area being sealed off with police tape as law enforcement and emergency crews surrounded the block.
Helicopters hovered overhead as streets were shut down and federal agents secured the perimeter.
Troops Held Down the Gunman After He Was Shot
According to investigators, at least one Guard member exchanged gunfire with the attacker. When the suspect fell to the ground, other troops rushed in and held him down until officers took him into custody. His injuries are not believed to be life-threatening, and he is being questioned by federal agents.
Authorities have not yet identified a motive and say the investigation is ongoing.
As officials work to determine why the attack occurred, the shooting has renewed concerns about safety in the nation’s capital and the risks faced by deployed Guard members. For continuing coverage of major national incidents and breaking public safety updates, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.