Shocking Attack Near Nation’s Capital
On Wednesday afternoon, two members of the West Virginia National Guard were shot at around 2:15 p.m. near the Farragut West station, just two blocks northwest of the White House in Washington, D.C. The incident has shocked both the city and the nation. Officials classified the shooting as a “targeted attack.”
Eyewitnesses reported the sound of multiple gunshots that triggered panic among nearby pedestrians. One bystander said he ran for cover after hearing what sounded like gunfire, only to return and find soldiers down on the ground, with medics working frantically to help them. The suspect was subdued shortly after and taken into custody with non-life-threatening injuries.
Chaos & Rescue: What Witnesses Saw
People near the scene described a chaotic scramble — some ran toward nearby cafes or metro exits, while others froze in shock. According to one witness, after the first volley of shots, there was silence followed by screams and hurried movement as law enforcement secured the area.
Emergency responders arrived minutes later. Videos from the scene show first-aid teams performing CPR on one of the wounded soldiers, and a stretcher carrying another, blood visible on his uniform. Nearby, other Guard members detained the suspect while keeping guards on the lookout for further danger.
Fallout: Investigation, Security Response & Public Reaction
Authorities have identified the alleged shooter as a 29-year-old Afghan national. He reportedly lived in the United States since 2021, having entered under a refugee resettlement program. The motive for the attack remains unclear, and federal law enforcement agencies — including the FBI and the Secret Service — have launched a full-scale investigation.
In response to the shooting, the federal government ordered an additional 500 National Guard troops to Washington, D.C., heightening security in an atmosphere already tense over troop deployments across major cities. The incident has reignited debate over immigrant vetting, security in the capital, and the deployment of military personnel for domestic law enforcement duties.
Officials and political leaders have condemned the attack as brazen and dangerous. Meanwhile, residents and commuters remain shaken — one witness summarized the public mood simply: “I don’t know what to think.”
Key Details at a Glance
- When: Around 2:15 p.m., November 26, 2025
- Where: Farragut West station area — about two blocks from the White House, Washington, D.C.
- Victims: Two West Virginia National Guard soldiers — both critically wounded, hospitalized.
- Suspect: 29-year-old Afghan national, in custody with non-life-threatening wounds.
- Status: Investigation ongoing; security increased with deployment of additional Guard troops.
