Authorities have identified the man accused of opening fire near the White House in Washington DC, critically injuring two National Guard members just one day before Thanksgiving. The suspect has been named as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national who entered the United States in 2021.
Shooting Incident Details
The violent incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon when National Guard members were conducting high-visibility patrols near the intersection of 17th Street and I Street NW. According to police reports, the gunman suddenly appeared from around a corner, raised a handgun, and fired directly at two soldiers.
Other Guard members stationed nearby immediately responded to the attack. The quick reaction of these personnel likely prevented further casualties. Images circulating on social media platform X showed the suspect being taken away in handcuffs after being shot, stripped of clothing, and loaded onto a stretcher before being placed in an ambulance.
Immediate Aftermath and Response
Following the shooting, the White House and nearby federal buildings were placed under temporary lockdown as a security precaution. Both Mayor Muriel Bowser and FBI director Kash Patel confirmed that the two injured soldiers remain in critical condition.
President Donald Trump acknowledged that the suspect also sustained serious injuries during the incident. The FBI is currently treating the case as a possible act of terrorism and is handling it as an assault on federal officers.
Increased Security Measures
In response to the security breach, the Trump administration has ordered 500 additional National Guard troops to be deployed in the city. This decision underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating the incident and their commitment to preventing similar attacks.
Law enforcement officials continue to verify all details about the suspect while the motive behind the shooting remains unclear. The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to determine whether Lakanwal acted alone or as part of a larger plot.
