WASHINGTON, D.C. — Two members of the West Virginia National Guard were shot and killed Wednesday afternoon in Washington, D.C., just blocks from the White House.
Gov. Patrick Morrisey confirmed the deaths in a statement released Wednesday afternoon.
“It is with great sorrow that we can confirm both members of the West Virginia National Guard who were shot earlier today in Washington, DC, have passed away from their injuries. These brave West Virginians lost their lives in the service of their country. We are in ongoing contact with federal officials as the investigation continues,” Morrisey said.
“Our entire state grieves with their families, their loved ones, and the Guard community. West Virginia will never forget their service or their sacrifice, and we will demand full accountability for this horrific act.”
The shooting occurred near 17th and I Street NW, where Washington, D.C., police issued a “critical incident” alert at 2:42 p.m. ET and urged the public to avoid the area. Video from the scene showed two men in uniform receiving medical treatment.
Earlier in the afternoon, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed that two National Guard members had been shot. She asked for prayers but did not provide information on their conditions at the time, saying DHS was working with local law enforcement to gather more details.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing.
