A shooting near the White House on Wednesday afternoon left three people injured, including two National Guard troops, according to multiple law-enforcement reports. The incident unfolded near 17th Street and I Street NW, just steps away from Farragut Square, a five-minute walk from the White House. Authorities say the situation escalated quickly, prompting an immediate response from both D.C. Metro Police and the U.S. Secret Service.
Police Confirm Shooting Near 17th and I Street NW
The D.C. Metro Police Department confirmed that shots were fired shortly before 3 p.m. ET. While they did not initially provide the number of victims, eyewitness reports and national outlets confirmed:
- Three people were shot
- Two victims were members of the National Guard
- The gunfire erupted in a busy commercial area
- A suspect is believed to be in custody
Secret Service and First Responders Flood the Area
Images and videos posted on social media show a heavy presence of Secret Service officers, police units, fire and rescue personnel, and ambulances lining the street. Witnesses reported hearing at least seven shots, causing pedestrians near Farragut Square to dive for cover. Aerial footage from the Citizen app showed police vehicles blocking multiple intersections as emergency crews treated victims at the scene.
National Guard Members Believed to Be Targeted
Early reports suggest that the National Guard troops were specifically targeted, though officials have not yet confirmed a motive. The shooting occurred in a highly secured zone near the White House, raising immediate national-security concerns.
Location of the Incident — A High-Security Zone
The incident took place just one block from the Eisenhower Executive Office Building and minutes from the White House gates. This area is typically filled with government workers, tourists, and office employees — making gunfire in this location extremely rare.
Witness Accounts Describe Chaos
Witnesses described panic and confusion as shots rang out. One observer recounted hearing seven rapid gunshots, while others saw people running and hiding behind vehicles. Police and Secret Service arrived within moments, securing the area.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities are now investigating:
- The shooter’s motive
- Whether the National Guard members were directly targeted
- The identity and background of the suspect
- Possible links to political or extremist intent
The White House has not yet released an official statement.