Two national guardsmen critically wounded in Washington DC shooting

Two members of the United States National Guard were critically wounded in a shooting incident near the White House in Washington DC on Wednesday, prompting an extensive security response and temporary flight restrictions at the capital's main airport. The attack occurred in close proximity to key government buildings in the nation's capital.

Presidential Response and Suspect Details

President Donald Trump, spending the Thanksgiving holiday in Florida, addressed the shooting via his Truth Social platform, stating "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." White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt confirmed Trump received a briefing on the incident while the DC Police Department reported a suspect was in custody following the shooting at 17th and I Street NW.

Immediate Security Measures

The shooting triggered significant security protocols across the capital region, with the Federal Aviation Administration temporarily suspending departing flights to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport due to the security situation. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed her department's coordination with local law enforcement, while Attorney General Pam Bondi characterized the incident as a "horrific shooting." FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed his agency's involvement in the investigation, with the police department securing the scene and advising public avoidance of the area.

Bipartisan Political Reactions

The attack drew immediate responses from congressional leaders across party lines. Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed his prayers for the wounded guardsmen, while Minority Leader Chuck Schumer thanked first responders for their rapid intervention in apprehending the suspect. House Democrat Leader Hakeem Jeffries emphasized that "there was no place for violence" in America, reflecting the unified condemnation of the attack from both political parties despite the heightened tensions in the US capital.