Two members of the National Guard were shot and injured this Wednesday in a shooting that took place downtown Washington, just blocks from the White House, an incident that has kept federal authorities on high alert.
According to the agency EFE, in X, the incident left two officers injured, while CNN cited the Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, who confirmed the shootings and stated that the investigation is ongoing.
According to initial reports, the shooting occurred in an area near the presidential complex.
The Metropolitan Police of Washington reported that the scene is "secured" and that a suspect has been apprehended.
According to , the shooting occurred at 2:20 p.m. (local time) at the entrance of the Farragut West metro station, just a few blocks from the White House.
The Washington police reported that a suspect was arrested and that the scene is secured, while agents from the FBI, U.S. Marshals, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were involved in the operation.
The condition of the two national guards is still unknown, and the White House was placed under temporary lockdown as a precautionary measure.
President Donald Trump, who is in Florida for Thanksgiving, was informed of the incident, official spokespeople confirmed.
Authorities urged residents to avoid the area while emergency teams and investigators worked on site.
So far, the circumstances that led to the attack and the identities of those involved have not been revealed.
"The White House is aware of and actively monitoring this tragic situation. President Donald Trump has been informed," said Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt in an official statement.
A spokesperson for the National Guard indicated that they will not make any statements until they have more details about the condition of the injured officers and the causes of the incident.
Elements of the National Guard from various states are deployed in the capital as part of the offensive against crime propelled by President Trump, an operation that has expanded to other cities across the country.
The police have established a security perimeter in the area while federal and local investigators analyze camera footage and witness testimonies to clarify the attack.
Statement from President Donald Trump
President Donald Trump condemned the attack and stated that the perpetrator "will pay a very high price" for his actions.
In a message posted on social media, the leader reported that the two members of the National Guard remain in critical condition and are hospitalized in different facilities, and he confirmed that the assailant was also injured.
Trump sent a message of support to the armed forces and security personnel, whom he referred to as "truly extraordinary people," and emphasized that both he and all members of the Office of the Presidency are "with them in this difficult time."
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