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By Ross Hill
According to Associated Press sources, two National Guard soldiers were targeted in a shooting in downtown Washington, D.C., close to the White House. The attack occurred late in the afternoon near 17th Street and I Street NW, not far from Farragut West Metro station.
A suspect, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, was quickly arrested after an exchange of gunfire. He was reportedly injured, though his life is not believed to be in danger.
The two service members, both from West Virginia, were transported to local hospitals in what authorities have described as “critical” condition.
Police say the attack appears to have been carried out by a lone gunman, with no confirmed link so far between the shooter and the soldiers.
Since August 2025, a significant number of National Guard troops — including units from West Virginia — have been deployed in Washington as part of a federal “crime emergency” operation. The incident occurs amid heightened tensions surrounding the military presence in the capital and raises renewed concerns over security measures during patrols, as well as the nature of the threats facing deployed personnel.
