Two National Guard members shot near White House

By Sarah Roderick-Fitch and Morgan Sweeney 
The Center Square

Two National Guard members from West Virginia were shot Wednesday afternoon near the White House, the state's governor confirmed.

Gov. Pat Morrisey at first said each had died, then later said there was conflicting information. When transported to the hospital, each was critical. At time of publication, the condition of the guard members was unclear.

Morrisey wrote in part on social media, "We are in ongoing contact with federal officials as the investigation continues."

A suspect was hospitalized and taken into custody, the Metropolitan Police Department confirmed. Injuries to the suspect are not believed to be life-threatening.

Second-term Republican President Donald Trump, on holiday playing golf Wednesday in West Palm Beach, Fla., in a social media post praised the National Guard, military and law enforcement. He called the suspect an "animal" and said "a very steep price" would be paid.

The shooting took place near the intersection of 17th and I streets in Northwest Washington, D.C., a couple blocks from the White House.

The Center Square was unsuccessful getting comment from Homeland Security and Metropolitan Police Department.

Homeland Security Kristi Noem, on social media, urged Americans to join her in praying for the victims. She her agency was working with local lawmen to gather information.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters the White House was “aware and is actively monitoring this tragic situation.” The Metropolitan Police Department has posted updates to social media and officials will “have an update for the community shortly.”

In part, Trump wrote on social media, “God bless our great National Guard, and all of our military and law enforcement. These are truly great people."