Two National Guard members from West Virginia were shot in Washington, D. C., in what officials are calling a “targeted” attack. Both members are now in critical condition, having been shot in the head. The suspected shooter, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, was also injured and is in custody. The FBI is treating the incident as a possible act of terrorism.
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey initially reported that the guardsmen had died but later corrected this, stating he received conflicting information about their condition. In a video, Morrisey condemned the shooting as an “act of unspeakable violence,” extending thoughts and prayers to the victims and their families.
The shooting occurred just one day before Thanksgiving, highlighting the severity of the incident. Around 2,100 National Guard troops were stationed in D. C. at the time, including 181 from West Virginia. The guard members were conducting “high visibility patrols” when the gunman approached and opened fire. Other guardsmen nearby responded swiftly, restraining the suspect until law enforcement arrived.
Law enforcement has stated that the suspect was a 29-year-old man last known to be in Bellingham, Washington, and initial reports indicated that he used a handgun during the attack. Investigators are currently working to confirm all details surrounding Lakanwal and his motives.
The nature of the investigation is ongoing, and officials have indicated that the circumstances could lead to changes in how the case is viewed. Authorities are also looking into the specifics of how the suspect was shot during the incident. The investigation is being closely monitored, with implications of a larger threat being examined.
