UPDATE: The two guards exchanged gunfire with the suspect before being shot – CNN sources

The two National Guardsmen exchanged gunfire with the suspect before being shot, according to two law enforcement sources. CNN sources said the suspect was taken into custody and taken from the scene on a stretcher.

The Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Police Department said on X that the scene was secure and a suspect was in custody. They advised people to avoid the area.

UPDATE: Donald Trump's reaction

After the incident at the White House, Donald Trump's reaction was not long in coming. He announced on his social platform that"the animal that shot the two National Guard members... is also seriously injured, but regardless, he will pay a very high price."

The message was taken from the White House's X account. We reproduce the full text below.

"God bless our Great National Guard and all our military and law enforcement. These are truly wonderful people. I, as President of the United States, and everyone associated with the Office of the President, stand with you!"

"The animal that shot the two National Guardsmen, with both being critically wounded, and now in two separate hospitals, is also severely wounded, but regardless, will pay a very steep price. God bless our Great National Guard, and all of our Military and Law Enforcement. These…

— The White House (@WhiteHouse) November 26, 2025

Original news

A suspect has been taken into custody, police said. The DC Police Department posted on X: “Critical Incident: MPD is on scene of a shooting at 17th and I Streets, NW. Please avoid the area. Updates to follow.”

Emergency vehicles were seen responding to the area and at least one helicopter landed on the National Mall, according to AP.

The DC Joint Task Force has confirmed that it is responding to an incident near the White House.

The Metropolitan Police Department acknowledged that it was responding to an emergency call regarding the shooting, but did not provide details.

A spokesperson for Mayor Muriel Bowser said local leaders are actively monitoring the situation.

President Donald Trump was at his golf course in West Palm Beach when the shooting occurred.

"The White House is aware of and actively monitoring this tragic situation. The President has been briefed," said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.

The status of the National Guard members is unknown at this time.

Hundreds of National Guard members from the district and several states have been patrolling the U.S. capital since President Donald Trump issued an emergency order in August, imposing controls on local police.