In a majority security breach, several people were shot on Wednesday in downtown Washington, DC, including at least two members of the US National Guard troops. The shooting occurred near the White House, prompting the Metropolitan Police to urge the public to avoid the area as officers responded to the scene. As of now, the circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear.
Metropolitan Police Assistant Chief Jeff Carroll stated the Guards were on a “high-visibility patrol” when the attacker came around a corner and “ambushed” them. However, after an exchange of fire, the other Guard members were successful in pinning him down and arresting the suspect.
National Guard troops from several states have been in Washington for months as part of President Donald Trump’s anti-crime crackdown initiative in the capital, an effort that has since expanded to other cities across the United States.
Donald Trump condemns the attack
Following the incident, President Trump condemned the attack, vowing a strict action against the suspect, whom he referred as an “animal.” He wrote 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.”
“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!” he added.
Also Read: Hong Kong: Death toll rises to 44 after massive fire engulfs high-rise buildings; over 300 missing
