Two National Guard Members Fatally Shot Near White House; Suspects in Custody Washington, D.C. — Federal and state officials are investigating after two West Virginia National Guard members were fatally shot near the White House on Wednesday afternoon in what authorities are calling a “targeted and deeply troubling attack” on uniformed personnel.
The incident occurred shortly before 2:00 p.m. along the northern perimeter of the executive complex, prompting an immediate security lockdown and a rapid response from U.S. Secret Service, Metropolitan Police, and federal counterterrorism units. Multiple high-level U.S. government sources initially confirmed to The National Pulse that “at least” two Guard members had been struck by gunfire. Within the hour, West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey publicly identified the fallen service members as John Cumberly and Aiden Steffeck, both members of the Mountain State’s National Guard contingent assigned to federal support duties in the capital. “These brave men answered the call of duty, represented our state with honor, and paid the ultimate price,” Governor Morrisey said in a statement. “Our entire state grieves with their families.”
Suspect in Custody, Possible Second Suspect By 2:58 p.m., law enforcement officials reported that one alleged suspect had been taken into custody near the scene after attempting to flee on foot. Investigators are actively pursuing leads suggesting a second suspect may have been involved in the attack, though authorities have not released a description.
A law enforcement official familiar with the early briefings, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the ongoing investigation, said the attack “appeared intentional” but emphasized that the motive remains unknown. Increased Security and Federal Coordination The Secret Service temporarily cordoned off surrounding streets, redirecting pedestrian and vehicular traffic as tactical teams swept the area. The FBI’s Washington Field Office and the Department of Homeland Security have joined the investigation, citing the sensitive location and potential national security implications. White House officials stated that there was no breach of the White House grounds and that the President was fully briefed.
Community and National Reaction The deaths of Cumberly and Steffeck have prompted an outpouring of condolences from West Virginia lawmakers, military leaders, and national officials. Flags at West Virginia state facilities will be lowered once formal protocols are initiated, according to the governor’s office. “This is a tragic day for the National Guard community,” a Guard spokesperson said in an evening briefing. “We will not rest until we understand what happened and why.” Authorities are expected to release further details as the investigation develops.
