WASHINGTON (AP) — Two West Virginia National Guard members shot today near the White House have died, the state’s governor said.
Governor Patrick Morrisey confirmed their deaths in a social media post. “We are in ongoing contact with federal officials as the investigation continues,” he said.
A suspect, now in custody, was also shot and has injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening, according to a law enforcement official not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and who spoke to AP on condition of anonymity. One National Guard member was shot in the head, according to a person familiar with the details of the incident who spoke to AP on condition of anonymity.
Here’s what to know:
- West Virginia Guard members: More than 300 West Virginia National Guard members were initially deployed to Washington, D.C., in August. According to the latest DC Task Force update, 180 people from West Virginia were deployed to the city.
- Trump reacts: The president warned in a statement on social media that the “animal” who shot the guardsmen “will pay a very steep price.” He also wrote on Truth Social, “God bless our Great National Guard, and all of our Military and Law Enforcement. These are truly Great People.”
- Guardsmen have been in DC since August: Trump issued an emergency order that federalized the local police force and sent in National Guard troops from eight states and the District of Columbia. The order expired a month later, but the troops remained.
By NELL CLARK/Associated Press
