Two members of the West Virginia National Guard were seriously injured in a shooting incident that occurred on December 27, 2025, just blocks from the White House. The shooting took place around 14:15 local time near the Farragut West subway station, where the guardsmen were conducting a high-visibility patrol.
The wounded soldiers, aged 24 and 20, both newly sworn in, were targeted by a gunman identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal. The 29-year-old Afghan national entered the United States in 2021 under the Operation Allies Welcome program. Following the incident, both soldiers underwent surgery and are currently in critical condition.
Authorities are treating the shooting as a potential act of terrorism. According to law enforcement, Lakanwal acted alone. He was quickly subdued by other National Guard troops who were present at the scene. Lakanwal is now in custody and receiving medical treatment for injuries sustained during the confrontation.
Evidence suggests that Lakanwal traveled from Washington State to D.C. to carry out the attack. Despite having no prior criminal record, he had a history of assisting U.S. intelligence agencies in Afghanistan during the conflict. As of now, authorities have not disclosed a motive for the shooting.
Government Response and Increased Security Measures
In response to the attack, the federal government has implemented immediate measures. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has suspended all new immigration applications from Afghan nationals indefinitely, pending a thorough review of vetting and security protocols. Additionally, the White House has ordered the deployment of 500 more National Guard troops to Washington, D.C., increasing the total number to over 2,000. This expansion has sparked controversy, particularly as it faces legal challenges from local city officials.
Local leaders have characterized the incident as a “targeted shooting,” raising concerns about public safety during the busy holiday season when tourists flock to the capital. The attack has reignited discussions surrounding domestic troop deployments and immigration policy.
In a statement reflecting on the tragedy, President Trump expressed solidarity with the injured soldiers and their families, asserting, “The hearts of all Americans tonight are with those two members of the West Virginia National Guard… We will make America totally safe again, and we will bring the perpetrator of this barbaric attack to swift and certain justice.”
As investigations continue, the nation looks for answers and increased measures to ensure safety in the wake of this distressing event.
