WASHINGTON, D.C. — A targeted shooting near the Farragut Metro Station, just blocks from the White House, left two members of the West Virginia National Guard critically injured Wednesday, according to federal and local officials. Authorities confirmed that the suspect, 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, is in custody following the attack.
The shooting unfolded when the suspect reportedly approached the two Guardsmen, raised a firearm, and opened fire without warning. Law enforcement officials said officers were able to quickly engage and subdue the gunman after a brief confrontation. No additional suspects are being sought.
At a news conference, FBI Director Kash Patel said the two service members remain in critical condition at a nearby hospital. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser described the incident as clearly targeted, emphasizing that the shooter appeared to single out the Guardsmen before firing.
Early chaos following the attack prompted a temporary lockdown of the White House complex, though the President was not on site at the time. Federal officials, including the Attorney General and FBI leadership, were immediately briefed and continue to receive updates.
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey initially stated the two Guardsmen had died but later clarified his remarks, citing conflicting early reports. He urged the public to keep the soldiers and their families in their thoughts as officials work to clarify their conditions.
The FBI and Metropolitan Police Department are jointly handling the investigation as authorities work to determine the motive behind the attack and whether there are any broader security implications.
