A shooting occurred at the entrance to the Farragut West metro station, just a few blocks from the White House. In connection with the incident, the president's residence was locked down according to established security protocols.
An unknown assailant opened fire, resulting in both servicemen sustaining serious injuries, one of whom was shot in the head.
A law enforcement representative stated that the shooter was "neutralized."
U.S. President Donald Trump commented on the situation, stating: "The animal that harmed the two National Guardsmen will definitely pay for their actions."
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey confirmed on his social media account that both servicemen died from their injuries.
In his address to the nation, Trump added that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security believes the attacker arrived from Afghanistan in 2021.
"This is a crime against our people and against humanity," he stated. The president also emphasized the need to check all those who entered the U.S. from Afghanistan during the time the Joe Biden administration was in power, again criticizing his predecessor.
"We will not allow such people to disrupt law and order in our country," Trump added.
He also reported that he instructed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to increase the number of National Guard personnel in Washington by 500.
"We will make America safe again," the president concluded, thanking the intelligence workers for their service.
According to CBS News, law enforcement identified the attacker as 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal.
