National Guard Shooting Near White House Sparks Emergency Plea

By Manisha Sahu, America News World
November 27, 2025

Washington, D.C. — A day before Americans sit down for Thanksgiving celebrations, the nation is grappling with the shock of a sudden and deadly assault on two uniformed members of the National Guard stationed near the White House. The shooting, carried out in an ambush-style attack at point-blank range, has prompted sharp reactions from U.S. leaders and triggered an urgent legal battle over the deployment of National Guard troops in the nation’s capital.

Emergency responders gather in a secured area where National Guard soldiers were shot near the White House in Washington. (AP Photo)

Officials confirmed that the two National Guard members, both serving with the West Virginia National Guard, were critically injured in the attack. They were swiftly transported to a D.C. hospital, where they continue to receive intensive medical care. Although authorities described their injuries as life-threatening, both remain under constant monitoring by medical teams. Police and the National Guard later confirmed that troops near the scene were able to apprehend the gunman, ensuring no additional suspects were involved.

The assault occurred just steps from the White House perimeter—a location heavily monitored and regarded as one of the country’s most secure zones. The fact that an attacker managed to carry out a targeted shooting so close to a major national landmark has raised urgent questions about security protocols and the growing threats faced by service personnel even within the U.S. homeland.

Motive Still Unknown, Leaders Call Attack ‘Targeted’ and ‘Evil’

While law enforcement agencies continue to investigate the intent behind the attack, the motive remains unclear. U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who was in Kentucky for official engagements at the time, told reporters that a “definitive motive” had not yet been established. However, he emphasized that the shooting is a “somber reminder of the risks service members face in the line of duty.”

FBI Director Kash Patel condemned the act as “an assault,” adding that federal investigators were treating the case with utmost seriousness. He assured the public that the bureau was working closely with local law enforcement and federal security agencies to uncover details surrounding the attacker’s background, movements, and potential affiliations.

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser also expressed concern, characterizing the shooting as a “targeted” attack on uniformed service members. She urged the public to remain vigilant while affirming that the city would continue to provide all necessary support to federal investigators and military authorities.

Trump Condemns Attack in Televised Address

U.S. President Donald Trump addressed the nation hours after the attack, calling the shooting a “heinous assault” and “an act of evil, an act of hatred, and an act of terror.” Speaking from the White House, Trump delivered a somber message emphasizing solidarity and national unity amid the tragedy.

“Earlier today, on the eve of the Thanksgiving holiday, two members of the National Guard serving in Washington, D.C. were shot at point blank range in a monstrous, ambush-style attack just steps away from the White House,” Trump said. “The hearts of all Americans tonight are with those two members of the West Virginia National Guard and their families.”

He added that the federal government would not tolerate violence against military personnel and vowed a swift and decisive response.

Emergency Motion Filed to Keep National Guard Troops in Washington

The shooting has reignited political debate over the role and presence of National Guard troops in the capital. Hours after the attack, the Trump administration filed an emergency motion to maintain National Guard deployments in Washington, D.C. Trump originally ordered the deployment in August as part of what he described as a “crime crackdown,” but the decision had faced legal challenges and resistance in court.

According to administration officials, the emergency plea argues that the shooting underscores the ongoing security threats in the city and strengthens the case for continued Guard presence. The motion is expected to prompt heated legal discussions in the coming days, especially as the authority of the federal government over D.C. security remains a deeply debated issue.

Critics of the deployment have accused the administration of overreach, claiming that a long-term military presence is unnecessary and politically motivated. Supporters, however, argue that the National Guard plays a crucial role in assisting local law enforcement during emergencies and in managing large-scale security threats.

The shooting incident—occurring amid this legal and political backdrop—has already begun to influence public opinion. Security analysts note that the attack may shift the broader conversation around national security, domestic extremism, and the protection of federal personnel stationed in urban areas.

Investigation Intensifies as Nation Prepares for Holiday

As millions of Americans prepare for Thanksgiving gatherings, security officials are working around the clock to piece together the timeline of the attack. The D.C. Metropolitan Police Department, FBI, and the National Guard’s internal security team are jointly leading the investigation. Authorities have not yet released the identity of the shooter or the exact weapon used in the attack, citing the ongoing nature of the inquiry.

Multiple eyewitnesses interviewed by local media described a chaotic scene, with nearby pedestrians ducking for cover as shots were fired. Some reported seeing National Guard personnel quickly responding, subduing the attacker within moments.

Security has been tightened around federal buildings, with additional checkpoints and patrols established in the immediate vicinity of the White House. Officials have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat but stressed the need for heightened awareness during the holiday period.

National Guard Community in Mourning

The West Virginia National Guard issued a statement saying the organization was “deeply devastated” by the attack on its members. Messages of support have poured in from across the nation as communities express solidarity with the victims.

Military families and advocacy groups emphasized the emotional and psychological toll such incidents take on service members and their loved ones. The National Guard, often serving dual roles in both state and federal missions, continues to face increasing demands in domestic operations—from disaster response to public security.

A Nation Struck on Thanksgiving Eve

The Thanksgiving holiday is usually seen as a period of unity, gratitude, and reflection. This year, the tragedy in Washington has cast a shadow over the celebrations, reminding Americans of the unpredictable threats that service members confront—even on home soil.

As investigations continue and the National Guard community awaits updates on the condition of the wounded soldiers, the nation watches closely, hoping for their recovery and clarity in the days ahead.