By Hollie SilvermanShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberThe suspect in the shooting of two National Guard members near the White House Wednesday afternoon has been identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal by law enforcement officials, according to multiple news outlets.
Lakanwal, 29, is an Afghan national who entered the U.S. in 2021, according to reports from CBS News and CNN.
No motive has been given for the shooting and the identities of the National Guard members who were critically injured in the shooting have not yet been released.
President Donald Trump and multiple state and federal leaders have issued statements condemning the violence and calling for accountability.
Why it Matters
The incident highlights ongoing security concerns in the nation's capital, especially amid the heightened National Guard deployment following President Trump order earlier this year.
As a result of the attack, Department of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that an additional 500 members would be deployed to D.C.
...What To Know
On November 26, two members of the West Virginia National Guard were shot near 17th and I Streets NW, in proximity to the White House, according to law enforcement and federal officials.
The shooting triggered immediate lockdowns at the White House, the Main Treasury, and Freedman's Bank Building.
The White House was placed on a "condition red" security status before being downgraded to "condition orange" as the situation stabilized.
Lakanwal was shot, taken into custody, and is being treated for injuries, according to officials quoted by the Associated Press
The identities of the Guardsmen have not been released. Both were transported to area hospitals, where they were described as being in critical condition by FBI Director Kash Patel.
The incident resulted in a temporary halt to flights at Reagan National Airport while emergency air traffic operations, including a medevac helicopter, were conducted near the White House.
What We Know About Shooting Suspect Rahmanullah Lakanwal
Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, is an Afghan National who moved to the U.S. in 2021.
CNN reported that Lakanwal lives in Washington State but no further details about his home life or residence were immediately available.
No motive has been determined for the shooting although officials said it was targeted and described it as an "ambush."
It is unclear what his current immigration status is.
Donald Trump Briefed on Shooting
President Trump was briefed on the shooting shortly after it occurred but has not spoken publicly about the shooting. He took to Truth Social to comment, saying, "The animal that shot the two National Guardsmen, with both being critically wounded, and now in two separate hospitals, is also severely wounded, but regardless, will pay a very steep price. God bless our Great National Guard, and all of our Military and Law Enforcement. These are truly Great People. I, as President of the United States, and everyone associated with the Office of the Presidency, am with you!"
How Many People Were Injured in the Shooting?
Two members of the West Virginia National Guard were critically injured in the shooting while a third person, the suspect was also injured in the incident, officials said.
How Many People Were Injured in the Shooting?
What People Are Saying
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey said on X, "It is with great sorrow that we can confirm both members of the West Virginia National Guard who were shot earlier today in Washington, DC have passed away from their injuries. These brave West Virginians lost their lives in the service of their country. We are in ongoing contact with federal officials as the investigation continues. Our entire state grieves with their families, their loved ones, and the Guard community. West Virginia will never forget their service or their sacrifice, and we will demand full accountability for this horrific act."
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem posted, “Please join me in praying for the two National Guardsmen who were just shot moments ago in Washington D.C. @DHSgov is working with local law enforcement to gather more information.”
FBI Director Kash Patel wrote, “FBI is engaged and assisting with the investigation in Washington, D.C. after National Guard members were shot this afternoon. Please pray for them and we will update with more information as we are able.”
California Governor Gavin Newsom said, “There must be zero tolerance for violence — of any kind — against the brave men and women in uniform who selflessly serve our communities and our country. The shooting of National Guard members in Washington, D.C. is horrific and unacceptable. Jen and I are praying for the service members, their families, and the entire National Guard community.”
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) wrote, “Praying for the National Guard members wounded in this horrific shooting. Thankful for the brave law enforcement officers and first responders who swiftly apprehended a suspect. There is no place for violence in America.”
What Happens Next
The Metropolitan Police Department and federal agencies continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, with more information on the suspect, motive, and possible broader implications expected as updates are released.
Investigators have not released details about the suspect's potential motives as of publication.
The shootings of the National Guard members could prompt renewed scrutiny and debate over the ongoing deployment in Washington, D.C. and other cities.
Update 11/26/25 7:24 p.m. ET: This story has been updated with more information.
Update 11/26/25 7:32 p.m. ET: This story has been updated with more information.
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