On November 26, 2025, a deadly shooting in downtown Washington, D.C., left two members of the West Virginia National Guard dead. It sent shockwaves through the city’s security apparatus. Governor Patrick Morrisey confirmed the loss in a post on social media, saying, “We are in continuous communication with federal authorities as the investigation unfolds.” Officials have released few details as detectives continue to piece together what happened.
The gunfire erupted near the White House at 17th and H Streets, a heavily monitored corridor. Multiple shots were reported there. A law enforcement official speaking anonymously to the Associated Press said the suspect now in custody was also wounded. However, his injuries are not expected to be life-threatening. One of the Guard members was shot in the head, according to a source briefed on the case.
Emergency crews transported all three individuals to a nearby hospital within minutes. Vito Maggiolo, public information officer for D.C. Fire and Emergency Services, said the Joint D.C. Task Force and the Metropolitan Police Department arrived quickly and secured the scene.
Intensified Security Measures
By early evening, the area had transformed into a tight security perimeter. Police tape blocked off several blocks and emergency lights flooded the intersection. Helicopters circled overhead as federal agencies joined local responders. The U.S. Secret Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives worked alongside National Guard personnel. They remained on-site.
President Donald Trump, vacationing in Florida for Thanksgiving, reacted on social media. He denounced the suspect as an “animal” who would “pay a very steep price.” He offered condolences in a separate message, writing, “God bless our Great National Guard and all our Military and Law Enforcement. These are truly Great People. I stand with you as President of the United States along with everyone associated with this office!”
National Guard Deployment Sparks Debate
The shooting comes at a moment of heightened debate over the National Guard’s expanded role within the capital. The Trump administration’s push to deploy troops in response to rising crime has prompted legal and political fights. There are questions over where military involvement begins and ends. The deaths of two Guard members are expected to intensify those discussions.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said on social media that he was “closely monitoring” the situation. He added that his “heart breaks for those affected by this horrific shooting.” Mayor Muriel Bowser sought to reassure residents that the city was reviewing its response protocols as officials continued to receive updates.
Earlier this year, Trump issued an emergency order granting federal oversight of local police. It brought in Guard units from multiple states. While the order expired after one month, the troops stayed active in roles ranging from neighborhood patrols to public service assignments. A federal judge recently ruled that the deployment must end. However, she paused her own decision for 21 days, giving the administration time to withdraw or appeal. Nonetheless, investigators are expected to release more information as the case develops.
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