The most widely reported recent shooting in Washington, D.C., involved two National Guard members near the White House on November 26, 2025. They were identified as Specialist Sarah Strom, 20, and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, both from the West Virginia National Guard.

What happened

• The two Guard members were on patrol near 17th and I Street NW, a few blocks from the White House, when a gunman approached and opened fire in what officials called an ambush-style, targeted attack.

• Both soldiers were taken to a local hospital in critical condition and underwent surgery; officials have described the attack as a “targeted” shooting and an “act of evil.”

Who is the suspect

• Law enforcement have identified the suspect as Rahmanullah Lakanwal (spellings vary slightly in different reports), a 29‑year‑old Afghan national who traveled across the country to D.C. before the attack.

• He was also shot during the incident, taken into custody, and is facing federal charges including assault with intent to kill while armed and firearm offenses; investigators are still publicly saying the motive is not yet clear.