Two Members of the US National Guard Shot Near the White House in Washington DC. (Photo by Celal Gunes/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Two members of the West Virginia National Guard have been shot near the White House on Wednesday (November 26) and are now in critical condition. The mayor described the incident as a targeted attack.

FBI Director Kash Patel reported the members remain in critical condition, despite rumors of them being killed in an earlier report by West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey.

“It is with great sorrow that we can confirm both members of the West Virginia National Guard who were shot earlier today in Washington, DC have passed away from their injuries,” Morrisey said in a statement posted to social media. “These brave West Virginians lost their lives in the service of their country. We are in ongoing contact with federal officials as the investigation continues.”

Less than 25 minutes later, Morrisey updated his initial statement to share the conflicting reports.

“We are now receiving conflicting reports about the condition of our two Guard members and will provide additional updates once we receive more complete information. Our prayers are with these brave service members, their families, and the entire Guard community,”

Details Surrounding The Attack

According to reports, the shooting occurred near the northwest DC intersection of 17th and I streets, about two blocks from the White House and near Farragut West Metro station.

Police stated that a lone gunman “ambushed” the guardsmen by approaching them and then opening fire. One of the guardsmen fired back, and other nearby Guard members helped contain the suspect.

Officials said the suspect, who used a handgun, is in custody and appears to have acted alone. The attack is being investigated as a potential act of terrorism, according to senior U.S. law enforcement officials.

While President Donald Trump was in Florida, he ordered 500 additional troops deployed to Washington, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said.

On Thursday (November 27), one of member’s father, reported that his daughter had been killed in the attack.

Gary Beckstrom told The New York Times that Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, had succumbed to her injuries following the shooting.

“She has a mortal wound. It’s not going to be a recovery,” he said. “I’m holding her hand right now.”