Two members of the US National Guard were seriously injured by gunfire from an armed man near the White House, just a few meters from the Farragut West metro station, on Wednesday afternoon (local time). The suspect, of Afghan origin, was shot by a third member of the Guard and is also hospitalized in critical condition.

A video posted on social media shows authorities attempting to apprehend the shooter.

Washington authorities are investigating the circumstances of the shooting attack that occurred on Wednesday afternoon, when an armed man approached three National Guard members who were on patrol and opened fire on them. According to officials, the perpetrator first shot one soldier and then targeted a second member of the Guard, before attempting to fire again at close range over the first victim. A third member of the Guard then intervened, returning fire and incapacitating the suspect.

The two injured soldiers were rushed to a hospital in the U.S. capital, where they remain in critical condition. Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser and FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that the soldiers have not died, contradicting initial reports from West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey, who later retracted his statements, citing “conflicting information.”

Investigators identified the suspect as an Afghan national who appears to have migrated to the United States in 2021 and resided in the state of Washington. The initial identification was based on fingerprints, and authorities are continuing procedures for full confirmation of his identity. According to reports, the man applied for asylum in 2024, which was approved earlier this year.

A handgun believed to have been used in the incident was found and seized at the scene, and authorities are investigating when and how the shooter acquired it. At present, there is no indication of accomplices or organized activity, although all possibilities are being examined, including a potential motive with terrorist characteristics.

From the White House, President Donald Trump condemned the attack, referring to the gunman as “the animal who shot the two National Guard men” and stating that “he will pay dearly” for his actions. The perpetrator himself is hospitalized in critical condition following the exchange of gunfire.

The incident took place at 2:15 p.m. local time (9:15 p.m. Athens time), in an area with increased police presence — a fact that has prompted federal and municipal authorities to reevaluate security measures around the White House. Investigations continue, and further announcements on the motives and background of the shooter are expected.