Two officers from the West Virginia National Guard have tragically passed away following injuries sustained during a shooting on Wednesday near the White House.
"It is with profound sorrow that we confirm the deaths of the two West Virginia National Guard members who were shot earlier this morning in Washington, D.C.," Governor Patrick Morrisey announced on X.
Governor Morrisey expressed his condolences to the families, emphasizing that the state will never forget their service and sacrifice, and vowed accountability for this appalling act. "These courageous West Virginians lost their lives in service to the nation. We are in constant communication with federal authorities as the investigation progresses," he added.
The officers were initially reported in critical condition following the incident in downtown Washington, just blocks from the White House, which has heightened federal alertness.
Details of the Tragic Incident
According to EFE on X, the incident resulted in injuries to two officers, while CNN reported that Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed the shooting and stated the investigation is ongoing.
Early reports indicate that the shooting occurred near the presidential complex. The Metropolitan Police Department of Washington confirmed the scene is "secured" and that a suspect has been apprehended.
ABC News verified that the shooting took place at 2:20 p.m. local time at the entrance of the Farragut West metro station, just blocks away from the White House. Federal agencies, including the FBI, U.S. Marshals, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, were involved in the operation.
Response from Authorities
The White House was temporarily locked down as a precautionary measure. President Donald Trump, who is in Florida for Thanksgiving, has been briefed on the incident, according to official spokespeople.
Authorities have urged residents to avoid the area as emergency teams and investigators continue their work. The circumstances leading to the attack and the identities of those involved have not yet been disclosed.
"The White House is aware and actively monitoring this tragic situation. President Donald Trump has been informed," Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated in an official release.
A National Guard spokesperson mentioned that no statement would be made until more details concerning the officers' conditions and the incident's causes are available.
Elements of the National Guard from various states have been deployed in the capital as part of President Trump's crime crackdown, a campaign extended to other cities across the nation.
Investigators are maintaining a security perimeter around the area while federal and local authorities review camera footage and eyewitness accounts to understand the attack better.
The shooter was also reported to be in critical condition and is currently in custody.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Washington D.C. Shooting
What happened near the White House on Wednesday?
A tragic shooting incident occurred near the White House, resulting in the deaths of two West Virginia National Guard officers.
How did the authorities respond to the shooting?
Authorities secured the scene, apprehended a suspect, and temporarily locked down the White House as a precaution.
Has the identity of the shooter been revealed?
As of now, the identity of the shooter and the details surrounding the incident have not been disclosed.
What steps are being taken in the investigation?
Federal and local investigators are analyzing camera footage and gathering witness testimonies to determine the incident's cause.