The two victims—members of the West Virginia National Guard—were part of a “high-visibility patrol” assigned as part of ongoing federal crime-fighting operations ordered by the administration.
One Guard member was reportedly shot in the head, according to an anonymous source speaking to the Associated Press.
Donald Trump Responds With Strong Words
Moments after news of the National Guard Troops Shooting broke, Donald Trump issued a fiery statement on Truth Social.
“The animal that shot the two National Guardsmen… will pay a very steep price,” Trump said.
“God bless our Great National Guard, and all of our Military and Law Enforcement… I am with you!”
Trump was not in Washington at the time, having traveled with Melania Trump to Palm Beach for the Thanksgiving holiday. But his administration reacted swiftly.
Attorney General Pam Bondi echoed the urgency, writing:
“Federal agents are on the scene of the horrific shooting… PRAY for our DC National Guard.”
One Guard Member Dies, Another Critical
President Donald Trump later announced late Thursday that Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, had succumbed to her injuries. He also said Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains in critical condition.
