Guard troops shot near White House in DC
Sultanul Arefin 
Two US National Guard members are in critical condition after a targeted shooting just blocks from the White House in Washington, DC. Officials say a lone gunman ambushed the soldiers as they patrolled a busy downtown street on Wednesday afternoon local time.
Shooting near White House leaves Guardsmen critical
The Guardsmen, both from West Virginia, were on a “high-visibility patrol” when the attacker approached and opened fire. The incident happened near the Farragut West Metro station, only a short walk from the White House complex. Police say nearby Guard members and law-enforcement officers returned fire and quickly secured the scene.
Suspect wounded and taken into custody
Authorities describe the suspect as a lone gunman, who was also shot during the exchange and taken to hospital under guard. Investigators from the FBI, Secret Service and local police are now leading the inquiry. However, officials have not yet confirmed a motive or released the suspect’s identity.
Conflicting reports on Guardsmen’s condition
Early statements from West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey suggested the troops had died from their wounds. He later walked back those comments, saying there were “conflicting reports” and that both soldiers remained in critical condition. As a result, officials are urging caution until doctors provide a clear update.
White House and downtown Washington on alert
The shooting triggered a temporary lockdown around the White House and nearby federal buildings. Streets were closed as heavily armed officers swept the area and helicopters circled overhead. President Donald Trump, in Florida for Thanksgiving, was briefed and later praised the Guard members, calling the gunman “an animal” who would “pay a very steep price.”
National Guard deployment faces fresh scrutiny
Thousands of Guard troops have been stationed in Washington since August, under a controversial federal “crime emergency” declaration. Civil rights groups and DC officials argue the deployment is unlawful and heightens tensions in the city. Meanwhile, Wednesday’s shooting is being treated as an assault on federal officers and is likely to intensify debate over the Guard’s role in domestic security.
Featured image: The Washington Post
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Suzan Seherin 