In a shocking and brazen act of violence on Wednesday afternoon, November 26, 2025, two National Guard members were shot and critically wounded in a targeted ambush just blocks from the White House in Washington, D.C. The attack sent shockwaves through the nation's capital, intensifying an already heated debate over the deployment of military personnel in the city.
The Incident: A Targeted Ambush
The shooting occurred around 2:15 p.m. EST near the intersection of 17th and I Streets NW, a busy downtown corridor close to the White House perimeter and the Farragut West Metro station.
The Victims: The two critically injured National Guard members are reportedly from the West Virginia National Guard contingent deployed to D.C. They were conducting a "high-visibility patrol" as part of a joint task force operation.
The Attack: According to police officials, the attacker—described as a lone gunman—came around a corner, raised a handgun, and immediately opened fire on the troops. Law enforcement sources called it a "clear ambush" and a "calculated attack."
Response: Other Guard members and law enforcement personnel nearby quickly converged on the scene. The suspect was shot—reportedly by a third Guard member who returned fire—and was taken into police custody. All three injured individuals were transported to local hospitals.
D.C. Mayor Muriel E. Bowser confirmed the shooting was a "targeted" attack on the Guardsmen.
Suspect Identified and Political Fallout
Authorities have identified the suspect as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national.
Immigration Status: Officials from the Department of Homeland Security stated that Lakanwal entered the United States in September 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome, the Biden administration program for Afghan evacuees. He reportedly later received asylum in 2025, though his green card application was pending.
Motive Unclear: While the FBI is investigating the incident, possibly as a matter of national security or an assault on federal officers, officials have not yet determined a clear motive for the attack. The suspect is reportedly not cooperating with investigators.
The incident immediately triggered intense political reaction. President Donald Trump, who ordered the controversial deployment of approximately 2,200 Guard members to D.C. earlier this year, condemned the attack as an "act of terror" and ordered the deployment of 500 additional troops to the city.
A Controversial Deployment
The violence occurs amid a contentious legal and political environment regarding the presence of the National Guard in D.C.
A federal judge recently ruled that the ongoing deployment was likely unlawful and must be halted, though the ruling was temporarily paused to allow for an appeal. Critics argue that using the Guard for general domestic law enforcement is an overreach, while supporters insist the deployment is necessary to address crime.
This ambush, taking place just before the Thanksgiving holiday, tragically highlights the risks faced by these service members while performing their duties in the nation's capital. The prayers of the nation remain with the critically injured Guardsmen and their families.
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