Washington, D.C., November 27, 2025
In a targeted shooting near the White House, two members of the West Virginia National Guard were critically injured. The incident, involving a suspect who was quickly apprehended, raised concerns over security in Washington, D.C. The suspect’s motives are still under investigation as local authorities and federal agencies respond to the attack and assess its implications for national security.
Washington, D.C.: Two National Guard Members Shot Near White House
On Wednesday, November 26, 2025, two members of the West Virginia National Guard were critically injured in a targeted shooting near the White House in Washington, D.C. The incident occurred around 2:15 p.m. near the intersection of 17th and I Streets NW, just two blocks from the White House. The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, was apprehended at the scene after being wounded during an exchange of gunfire. Both injured soldiers were transported to local hospitals and remain in critical condition. The motive for the attack is under investigation, and no other suspects are being sought.
Details of the Shooting
The shooting took place in the busy Farragut Square area, a popular spot for both locals and tourists. According to authorities, the suspect approached the guardsmen during their high-visibility patrol and opened fire without warning. An exchange of gunfire ensued, during which the suspect was wounded and subsequently taken into custody. Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with emergency responders quickly arriving to assist the injured soldiers.
Suspect’s Background
Rahmanullah Lakanwal entered the United States in 2021 under the Operation Allies Welcome program, which aimed to resettle Afghan nationals who assisted U.S. forces during the Afghanistan conflict. He was granted asylum in April 2025. Authorities have not yet determined a motive for the attack, and investigations are ongoing.
Political Reactions and Security Measures
In response to the shooting, President Donald Trump condemned the attack as an “act of terror” and emphasized the need for stricter immigration policies. He announced plans to review the status of Afghan nationals residing in the U.S. and ordered an additional 500 National Guard troops to be deployed to Washington, D.C., to bolster security.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) temporarily halted flights arriving at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport due to the incident, citing the need for emergency response coordination. Normal operations resumed shortly thereafter.
Background on National Guard Deployment
The deployment of National Guard troops to Washington, D.C., has been a point of contention. In August 2025, President Trump ordered the deployment of over 2,200 National Guard members to the capital as part of a broader strategy to reinforce immigration and crime policies in Democratic-led cities. This move has faced legal challenges, with a federal judge ruling that the deployment likely violates the city’s self-governance rights under the Home Rule Act. However, the decision has been temporarily suspended pending appeal.
Ongoing Investigations
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The FBI is leading the inquiry, focusing on potential links to terrorism and the suspect’s background. The Secret Service and other federal agencies are also involved in the investigation.
Impact on Local Community
The shooting has raised concerns among residents and visitors in the area. Local businesses near Farragut Square reported a decline in foot traffic following the incident. Community leaders have called for increased security measures and support for the affected National Guard members and their families.
Weather Conditions
On the day of the incident, Washington, D.C., experienced mostly cloudy conditions with a high of 46°F (8°C). The weather was cool and breezy, with temperatures dropping to a low of 29°F (-2°C) in the evening.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened near the White House on November 26, 2025?
On November 26, 2025, two members of the West Virginia National Guard were critically injured in a targeted shooting near the White House in Washington, D.C. The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, was apprehended at the scene after being wounded during an exchange of gunfire. Both injured soldiers were transported to local hospitals and remain in critical condition. The motive for the attack is under investigation, and no other suspects are being sought.
Who is the suspect involved in the shooting?
The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, is a 29-year-old Afghan national who entered the United States in 2021 under the Operation Allies Welcome program. He was granted asylum in April 2025. Authorities have not yet determined a motive for the attack, and investigations are ongoing.
What actions have been taken in response to the shooting?
In response to the shooting, President Donald Trump condemned the attack as an “act of terror” and emphasized the need for stricter immigration policies. He announced plans to review the status of Afghan nationals residing in the U.S. and ordered an additional 500 National Guard troops to be deployed to Washington, D.C., to bolster security.
What is the current condition of the injured National Guard members?
Both injured National Guard members were transported to local hospitals and remain in critical condition. Their identities have not been publicly released.
What is the weather like in Washington, D.C., on the day of the incident?
On the day of the incident, Washington, D.C., experienced mostly cloudy conditions with a high of 46°F (8°C). The weather was cool and breezy, with temperatures dropping to a low of 29°F (-2°C) in the evening.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 17th and I Streets NW, Washington, D.C., two blocks from the White House |
| Date and Time | November 26, 2025, around 2:15 p.m. local time |
| Victims | Two members of the West Virginia National Guard, critically injured |
| Suspect | Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29-year-old Afghan national, apprehended at the scene |
| Response | President Trump condemned the attack, ordered additional National Guard troops to D.C., and announced a review of Afghan nationals’ status in the U.S. |
| Weather | Mostly cloudy, high of 46°F (8°C), low of 29°F (-2°C) |
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