In a shocking incident on November 26, 2025, two National Guard members were shot in Washington, D.C., prompting widespread condemnation and a swift response from law enforcement. The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national who entered the U.S. in 2021, has reportedly refused to cooperate with authorities. Officials, including West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey, labeled the shooting an “act of unspeakable violence,” igniting discussions about security protocols and the implications for national safety.
| Article Subheadings |
|---|
| 1) Initial Details of the Incident |
| 2) The Suspect’s Background and Motive |
| 3) Reactions from Government Officials |
| 4) Law Enforcement Response |
| 5) Ongoing Investigations and Community Impact |
Initial Details of the Incident
The shooting occurred around 2:15 PM at a heavily populated area near the Farragut Metro station, known for its bustling atmosphere and proximity to landmarks. Witnesses reported hearing two distinct gunshots, followed by a panicked exodus of people, including children, as they rushed to safety. One eyewitness, Stacy Walters, described the chaos, saying, “It’s such a beautiful day. Who would do this?” The shooting rapidly escalated into a confrontation, leading to both guard members being critically injured and the suspect being placed in custody.
Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) soon arrived on the scene to provide immediate care. Disturbingly, witnesses later saw one of the injured guard members being transported on a stretcher, his head covered in blood, heightening the sense of urgency and fear surrounding the event. The total number of shots fired has been reported to be between 10 to 15, indicative of a violent and chaotic situation.
The Suspect’s Background and Motive
Law enforcement sources have identified the suspect as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, who came to the United States from Afghanistan in 2021. As reports emerge, it has been confirmed that he has not been cooperative with investigators, raising concerns about the motive behind the attack. According to police, Lakanwal utilized a handgun during the shooting, which has led to further scrutiny of his background and possible connections to extremist ideologies or any potential affiliations.
As the authorities delved deeper into Lakanwal’s past, they emphasized that he reportedly acted alone in this ambush-style attack. However, the investigation is ongoing, and law enforcement officials are examining all possible avenues to understand if there were any external influences or accomplices involved.
Reactions from Government Officials
The shooting prompted a swift reaction from a range of government officials, with West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey calling the assault “an act of unspeakable violence.” In his social media addresses, he affirmed the state’s support for the National Guard members and condemned the attack. “I know the state stands behind the Guard, and I know the president stands behind these courageous service members,” he added, revealing a sentiment echoed by many others in the political spectrum.
Members of Congress also shared their condolences and support for the wounded guardsmen. Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer both extended their prayers and urged the public to keep the guardsmen in their thoughts. House Speaker Mike Johnson described the National Guard as “heroic” and praised their tireless efforts to maintain safety in the capital.
Law Enforcement Response
The Metropolitan Police Department and other law enforcement agencies quickly mobilized to manage the situation on the ground. Jeff Carroll, the executive assistant chief of the Metropolitan Police Department, described the incident as a “targeted ambush.” The police reviewed video footage from the area and confirmed that the suspect acted deliberately, suggesting premeditation. Fortunately, other guardsmen in the vicinity were able to apprehend Lakanwal shortly after the incident unfolded, preventing further escalation of violence.
The FBI and other federal agencies, including the D.C. attorney general’s office, have also been actively involved in the investigation. FBI Director Kash Patel stated that the crime will be treated as a matter of national security, reinforcing the seriousness with which authorities are pursuing this case.
Ongoing Investigations and Community Impact
As this investigation unfolds, law enforcement is interviewing potential witnesses and examining every angle to gather relevant information. Officials are now analyzing the incident within the broader context of rising ambush-style attacks targeting law enforcement personnel across the country, which has become a troubling trend in recent years.
The implications of the attack have rippled through the D.C. community, raising concerns about safety and security, particularly as the city approaches the holiday season. Many have voiced their apprehensions over the potential for further violence and the toll it may take on law enforcement morale. The National Guard, which has been present in D.C. since a deployment directed by the Trump Administration in 2021, strives to assure the community that the health and safety of its service members remains a top priority.
In light of the shooting, security measures are likely to be reassessed and possibly reinforced, adding an extra layer of scrutiny on the already heightened alertness in the city. Residents and officials alike are praying for the swift recovery of the injured guardsmen.
| No. | Key Points |
|---|---|
| 1 | Two National Guard members were shot in D.C., with the suspect quickly apprehended. |
| 2 | The shooter, identified as an Afghan national, has not cooperated with authorities. |
| 3 | Government officials condemned the act, highlighting it as a tragic event in a time of celebration. |
| 4 | Law enforcement continues to investigate all angles, treating the incident as a matter of national security. |
| 5 | Community concerns over safety are rising, prompting discussions on security measures. |
Summary
The shooting of two National Guard members in Washington, D.C. underscores a distressing trend of violence against law enforcement, particularly amid the heightened security surrounding holiday events. As investigations continue into the suspect’s motivations and background, community leaders and government officials emphasize the importance of solidarity in the face of such senseless acts. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by those in uniform and the necessity of maintaining safety in public spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Who was the suspect in the D.C. National Guard shooting?
The suspect has been identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national who entered the U.S. in 2021.
Question: What were the conditions of the injured National Guard members?
Both National Guard members were reported to be in critical condition following the shooting, and their recovery is being closely monitored.
Question: How have officials responded to the shooting?
Government officials, including Governor Patrick Morrisey and various members of Congress, have strongly condemned the act, calling it an “unspeakable act of violence” and expressing support for the injured guard members.
