Shooting Incident Leaves Two National Guardsmen in Critical Condition in Washington, D.C.

Two members of the National Guard were shot in Washington, D.C., raising alarms in the capital. West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey confirmed that both Guardsmen, whom he identified as being from West Virginia, are in critical condition, with their prognosis initially uncertain. The incident occurred on Wednesday on a street near the White House during the Thanksgiving holiday, when President Donald Trump was away at his residence in Florida. In a statement, President Trump referred to the suspect as a 'beast,' confirming that the shooter was seriously injured and is currently in custody. 'He will have to pay a high price,' Trump added, emphasizing the seriousness of the event. Though the specifics of the shooting remain unclear, Vice President J.D. Vance, while visiting troops in Kentucky, stated that the motive for the attack is still unknown. The nation is keeping the victims and their families in their thoughts and prayers during this troubling time. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem disclosed that her department is collaborating with local authorities to investigate the incident further. A spokesperson for the Presidential Office announced that the President's residence has been temporarily sealed off as a precaution. The presence of over 2000 National Guardsmen in Washington has been a regular sight since August, when President Trump deployed them citing rampant crime as justification. The situation surrounding their deployment has been contentious, with the capital itself taking legal action against it. Recently, a federal judge ruled the deployment unlawful but suspended her ruling for three weeks, allowing the Trump administration time to appeal. The stay will remain in effect until December 11. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2