Two members of the National Guard were shot and killed near the White House on November 22, 2023. A suspect involved in the incident sustained injuries that authorities have indicated are not life-threatening. A law enforcement official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, confirmed the details to the Associated Press.
Emergency medical responders swiftly transported all three individuals—the two deceased and the suspect—to a local hospital. Vito Maggiolo, a public information officer for the DC Fire and Emergency Services, reported on the swift response to the scene, which was cordoned off with police tape. Emergency lights from fire and police vehicles illuminated the area, while helicopters hovered overhead, providing aerial support.
Response and Investigation
The situation drew a significant response from law enforcement, including agents from the US Secret Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The Joint DC Task Force confirmed their involvement after receiving reports of the shooting. The Metropolitan Police Department also responded but did not immediately release further details.
Local leaders are closely monitoring the situation, according to a spokesperson for Mayor Muriel Bowser. Bowser had been attending a Thanksgiving Day event at the Convention Center earlier in the day and subsequently held a press conference addressing her decision not to seek re-election.
At the time of the incident, President Donald Trump was at his golf course in West Palm Beach. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated, “The White House is aware and actively monitoring this tragic situation. The president has been briefed.”
This incident occurs during a heightened security environment in Washington, D.C. Hundreds of National Guard members from the District of Columbia and several states have been patrolling the capital. This deployment follows an emergency order issued by President Trump in August, which federalized the local police force and brought in National Guard troops from eight states.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and additional details are expected as authorities continue to gather information. The implications of this tragic event on security operations in the nation’s capital remain to be seen as the situation develops.
