A tragic shooting in the heart of Washington D.C. has claimed the lives of two National Guardsmen, sending shockwaves through the American capital.
Shooting Erupts in Downtown Washington
Gunfire broke out in downtown Washington D.C. on Wednesday afternoon local time, critically wounding two members of the West Virginia National Guard. Emergency services rushed both soldiers to hospital, but despite medical efforts, they succumbed to their injuries shortly after arrival.
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey confirmed the devastating news in a post on social media platform X. "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," the Governor wrote.
Official Responses and Investigation
Law enforcement officials have taken one suspect into custody, who also sustained severe injuries during the incident. The FBI is now at the scene and is actively assisting with the investigation into the deadly shooting.
Former President Donald Trump, who is currently at Mar-a-Lago for the Thanksgiving holiday, has been fully briefed on the situation. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated, "The White House is aware and actively monitoring this tragic situation. The President has been briefed."
Before official confirmation of the soldiers' deaths, Trump commented on the incident via his Truth Social platform. "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," he wrote.
Tributes for Fallen Service Members
In his social media post, the former president paid tribute to the service members, writing: "God bless our Great National Guard, and all of our Military and Law Enforcement. These are truly Great People. I, as President of the United States, and everyone associated with the Office of the Presidency, am with you!"
The incident highlights the ongoing security challenges faced in the American capital and the risks undertaken by military personnel stationed in the area. The investigation into the motive and circumstances surrounding the shooting continues.
