Two National Guard members are in critical condition after a shooting near the White House in Washington DC. The incident, which occurred near Farragut Square Metro Station, is being described as a "targeted shooting" by DC Mayor Muriel Bowser. The soldiers, from West Virginia, were on patrol when they were ambushed by a lone gunman.
Trump Responds, Points Finger
President Donald Trump, speaking from Florida, condemned the attack as an "act of terror" and vowed swift action. He stated that the alleged shooter is an Afghan national who entered the US in September 2021. Trump criticized the Biden administration, claiming the suspect was "flown in" under their watch and calling for a re-examination of all Afghans who have entered the country since.
"We must now re-examine every alien who has entered our country from Afghanistan under [former President Joe] Biden," Trump said during a live address.
Details of the Attack
According to police reports, the suspect opened fire on the guardsmen before being subdued by other National Guard members who heard the gunfire. FBI Director Kash Patel described the attack as a "brazen act of violence." Metropolitan Police Assistant Chief Jeff Carroll stated the soldiers were "ambushed" as the suspect "came around the corner" and immediately began firing.
Controversy and Political Fallout
Trump's response has sparked controversy, with critics accusing him of exploiting the tragedy for political gain. His remarks about immigrants and refugees have drawn sharp criticism, with some accusing him of spreading misinformation and fear. The incident comes as the Trump administration seeks an emergency stay of an order to remove the National Guard from Washington, DC, a move deemed unlawful by a federal judge last week.
Investigation Ongoing
The FBI is leading the investigation into the shooting. The identity of the alleged gunman has been reported as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national. Authorities are working to determine the motive behind the attack.