Two West Virginia National Guard members were shot near the White House and Farragut Metro Station in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, sparking a nationwide response and a heightened security alert. The suspected gunman, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, is in custody following the attack. Law enforcement sources confirmed his involvement, stating that he was granted humanitarian parole by U.S. authorities. The U.S. government is investigating the shooting as a potential act of international terrorism. Both guardsmen remain in critical condition, with their conditions under close monitoring by medical teams.
President Trump condemned the attack as a ‘savage attack’ and called it an ‘act of evil,’ vowing to ensure the perpetrator faces severe consequences. The White House was placed on lockdown following the incident, as authorities assessed the threat level and ensured the safety of all personnel. Local and federal officials are working together to secure the area and prevent any further incidents. In an online address to the nation, Trump emphasized the ‘heinous nature’ of the attack, describing it as a ‘crime against humanity’ and a ‘crime against our entire nation.’
The suspect, Lakanwal, who entered the U.S. after the withdrawal from Afghanistan, was granted humanitarian parole by U.S. officials. This raises questions about the oversight in the immigration process and the potential risks of allowing individuals with dubious backgrounds to stay in the country. The incident has sparked bipartisan outrage, with leaders from both parties condemning the attack and calling for immediate action to ensure the safety of American citizens and military personnel.
Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser explained that the suspect had targeted the guardsmen, who were on patrol near the White House. Law enforcement officials confirmed that the suspect was apprehended shortly after the shooting, highlighting the swift response of the Metropolitan Police Department. The presence of approximately 2,200 National Guard members in the capital at the time of the attack underscores the heightened security measures in place. Additionally, Vice President JD Vance expressed solidarity with the families of the injured guardsmen, emphasizing the importance of national defense and the sacrifices made by service members.
The shooting has drawn attention to the ongoing security challenges in Washington, D.C., where a significant number of National Guard troops are deployed. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced that President Trump had ordered the deployment of an additional 500 troops to the capital, aiming to enhance security and ensure the safety of the city. The incident has also reignited debates about immigration policies and the potential risks associated with allowing citizens from countries like Afghanistan to remain in the U.S. under humanitarian parole programs.
As the investigation into the shooting progresses, authorities are focusing on determining the extent of the suspect’s motives and the potential involvement of any foreign entities. The U.S. government has emphasized the seriousness of the incident and pledged to bring the perpetrator to justice. The event has become a focal point for national conversations about security, immigration, and the safety of American citizens and their protectors.