A tragic shooting only blocks from the White House has left two members of the U.S. National Guard critically wounded and the nation on edge, prompting leaders and citizens alike to call for prayer and vigilance.
The gunfire erupted at the intersection of 17th and H Streets NW in Washington, D.C., an area heavily monitored due to its proximity to the White House. Emergency responders, National Guard personnel, and U.S. Secret Service agents quickly flooded the scene as witnesses reported chaos and confusion.
According to The Sun, President Donald Trump, who was at his West Palm Beach golf course at the time, sharply condemned the suspected shooter, writing on Truth Social: “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.” He added: “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!”
The suspected shooter was taken into custody and was also injured, though his wounds are not believed to be life-threatening, according to The Sun.
Initial statements on the condition of the two troops fueled confusion. West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey first announced their deaths, stating: “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,” according to The Sun. He later revised that statement, saying he was receiving “conflicting reports about the condition of our two Guard members.”
Images from the scene showed law enforcement cordoning off surrounding blocks, emergency lights reflecting off buildings, and a helicopter landing on the National Mall to transport victims. Vito Maggiolo of DC Fire and Emergency Services confirmed that all three injured individuals—the two Guardsmen and the suspect—were taken to nearby hospitals, according to The Sun.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that “The White House is aware and actively monitoring this tragic situation. The President has been briefed,” according to The Sun.
Local leaders, including Mayor Muriel Bowser’s office, reported that they were actively monitoring the response. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer also expressed grief, saying his “heart breaks for the victims of this horrific shooting,” according to The Sun.
For Catholics, moments like this call us to lift up in prayer those who serve our nation—especially those who place themselves in harm’s way to protect others. As details continue to unfold and families wait in uncertainty, the faithful are invited to pray for healing, protection, and consolation.
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