On Wednesday, two National Guard soldiers were critically injured in a shooting near the White House, and police arrested a 29-year-old Afghan national, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, as the suspected gunman, according to law enforcement officials.
The shooting happened just outside the Farragut West Metro Station in the heart of Washington, D.C. Officials said the soldiers were standing near the station entrance when the suspect opened fire at close range.
Emergency crews responded within minutes. Agents from the United States Secret Service performed first aid on the sidewalk while more officers secured the area. One soldier was airlifted from the National Mall, and both remain in critical condition at local hospitals.
Authorities said Lakanwal arrived in the United States in 2021 during the Afghanistan withdrawal under Operation Allies Welcome. He had been living in Washington state before traveling to D.C. Investigators said they are still trying to determine why he was in the area and what may have led to the attack.
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Soon after the shooting, President Donald Trump reacted on social media. He called the suspect an “animal” and said the person responsible “will pay a very steep price.” The president also thanked the National Guard and law enforcement for their response. He is currently in Florida for the Thanksgiving holiday.
The White House said it was briefed quickly. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters the administration is “actively monitoring” the situation and staying in close contact with federal agencies.
At the scene, FBI Director Kash Patel called the attack a “heinous act.” He confirmed that the investigation will be handled at the federal level because the victims are federal service members. He said the bureau is working closely with the Department of Homeland Security, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and local police.
Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser said she has spoken with federal prosecutors and expressed support for the soldiers’ families. She said the city will “fully assist” in the investigation.
Witnesses described a chaotic moment. Reporter Mari Otsu said she heard several gunshots while riding in a car near the Metro station. She watched one soldier fall to the ground as others rushed toward him.
The shooting briefly affected air travel. The Federal Aviation Administration paused some flights into Reagan National Airport while emergency aircraft operated over downtown. Normal flights resumed shortly afterward.
Federal officials said the suspect is not cooperating with investigators. Detectives are reviewing video footage and speaking with witnesses to confirm how the attack unfolded and whether the soldiers were targeted.
The administration is increasing its response. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said an additional 500 National Guard troops will deploy to Washington. More than 2,000 troops are already stationed across the city under the president’s ongoing crime-reduction effort.
Featured image via X screengrab
