UPDATE: Two National Guard members shot not far from the White House 

An active shooter incident has rocked the area surrounding the White House perimeter, where at least two National Guard members were shot just minutes ago near the intersection of 17th Street and H Street NW. Early reports indicate the suspected gunman is on the run, prompting a massive security response and lockdown in the heart of the nation’s capital.

One of the victims is reportedly in critical condition after being hit at point-blank range with a head wound. The second National Guard member’s condition is unknown, and initial reports suggest there may be a possible third victim involved in the shooting. The identities of the victims have not been released, and the specific duties they were performing near the perimeter at the time of the attack remain unclear.

Manhunt Underway

The incident triggered an immediate active shooter response protocol by multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Secret Service, Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), and other federal authorities. The area, which is typically bustling with tourists, government workers, and protesters, has been secured and put under lockdown as officers establish a wide perimeter to search for the perpetrator.

Eyewitnesses in the vicinity described a chaotic scene, with a heavy presence of armed police and emergency vehicles rushing toward the location, just blocks from the Executive Mansion. Federal authorities are treating the event as a serious, targeted attack on uniformed personnel near one of the nation's most sensitive security locations.

The proximity of the shooting to the White House has elevated the security level across downtown Washington, D.C. Authorities are urging the public to avoid the area as the manhunt for the shooter continues, utilizing all available resources, including helicopters and specialized tactical units.

The precise motive for the attack is currently unknown, but the targeting of National Guard members on duty near the presidential perimeter raises immediate concerns about domestic terrorism or targeted political violence against law enforcement and military personnel. Further updates from law enforcement are anticipated as they piece together the details of the attack and attempt to locate the suspect.

UPDATE: According to the DC Police Department the scene has been secured and one suspect has been taken into custody.

UPDATE 2:

Both National Guard members who were shot near the White House perimeter have tragically passed away from their wounds, as confirmed by the Governor of Virginia. The fatal incident, which occurred just blocks from the Executive Mansion, has escalated the security alert across the capital. A suspect has been taken into custody in connection with the shooting. In response to the attack, President Donald Trump released a statement vowing that the "animal responsible for the shooting will pay a very steep price" underscoring the severity of the targeted violence against uniformed personnel.