Full Breakdown
Shooting Incident Involving National Guardsmen in Washington, D.C.
11/27/2025, 5:00:42 AM
Overview of the Incident
On Wednesday afternoon, a shooting incident occurred at the Farragut West metro station in Washington, D.C., leaving two West Virginia National Guardsmen in critical condition. The attack, which is being investigated as an act of terrorism, unfolded around 2:10 PM when the suspect, identified as an Afghan national, opened fire on the guardsmen. The situation escalated into a shootout, with the suspect reportedly firing three shots before being subdued by other guardsmen.
Details of the Attack
According to Jeffery Carroll, Executive Assistant Chief of the Washington Metropolitan Police Department, the suspect approached the guardsmen and opened fire. Both guardsmen sustained gunshot wounds to the head and were subsequently treated at a local hospital. The suspect also suffered non-life-threatening injuries during the confrontation. Initial confusion arose when West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey announced that the guardsmen had died, a statement he later retracted. FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that the guardsmen were alive but in critical condition.
Official Responses
In response to the shooting, President Donald Trump, who was in Florida at the time, expressed his outrage on Truth Social, stating that the assailant would face a "very steep price." He emphasized the bravery of the National Guard and ordered an additional 500 troops to be deployed to the area. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth condemned the attack as a "cowardly, dastardly act," while Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem indicated that her department was collaborating with local law enforcement.
Eyewitness Accounts
Stacey Walters, a nurse who witnessed the incident, described hearing gunshots and seeing people, including children, fleeing the scene. She expressed disbelief that such violence could occur during the holiday season, highlighting the shock felt by the community.
Criticism and Opposition
The incident has reignited discussions about the deployment of National Guard troops in Washington, D.C. President Trump had previously deployed the National Guard in August to address rising violent crime, a decision that faced legal challenges. A recent ruling by Judge Jia Michelle Cobb stated that the Trump administration violated the city's Home Rule Act by deploying troops for non-military crime deterrence, placing a 21-day stay on the order.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There was initial confusion regarding the condition of the guardsmen, with conflicting reports about their status following the shooting. While Governor Morrisey initially stated they were deceased, this was later corrected by federal officials. Further details regarding the suspect's identity and motives remain unclear as investigations continue.
