Tragic Shooting of National Guard Members in D.C.: What We Know So Far | TNNEWS

National Guard Members Injured in D.C. Shooting

Two members of the West Virginia National Guard are in critical condition following a shooting incident near the White House on Wednesday afternoon. The attack has raised concerns about security in the nation’s capital.

Incident Details and Response

The shooting took place around 2:15 p.m., as reported by Jeffrey Carroll, an executive assistant chief with the Metropolitan Police Department. The assailant approached the Guard members and opened fire. Nearby personnel quickly subdued the shooter, who was also injured and taken into custody. The identity of the person who shot the gunman remains unclear.

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser described the event as a “targeted” attack. President Trump, who was in Florida at the time, commented on the incident via social media, expressing his outrage and promising severe consequences for the perpetrator.

Background of the Suspected Shooter

The suspect, identified as Rahmanullah Lakamal, arrived in the U.S. from Afghanistan in 2021 under the Biden administration’s Operation Allies Welcome. This program facilitated the entry of thousands of Afghans following the Taliban’s takeover. Lakamal’s previous work with U.S. agencies, including the CIA, was cited as a reason for his admission.

Despite the program’s intentions, the incident has sparked debate over immigration policies and security measures. The Department of Homeland Security is currently reviewing its protocols, affecting many Afghan nationals awaiting immigration processing.

Reactions and Legal Implications

Attorney General Pam Bondi mentioned that both injured Guard members underwent surgery and are fighting for their lives. She indicated that charges against the shooter could include life imprisonment with terrorism charges, depending on the outcome of the investigation.

In response to the attack, President Trump announced the deployment of an additional 500 National Guard troops to Washington, D.C. This decision follows a pattern of deploying troops to various cities, often leading to legal challenges and controversy.

Ongoing Legal and Political Challenges

The deployment of National Guard troops has faced significant legal opposition, with federal judges intervening in several cases. A recent ruling deemed the use of troops in D.C. unlawful, though the decision is pending appeal.

The situation remains fluid, with updates expected as investigations continue and legal proceedings unfold.