2 National Guard members wounded near White House, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem confirms

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WASHINGTON, DC: A suspect was taken into custody and hospitalized following a "critical incident" in which two National Guard members were shot just blocks from the White House.

The shooting occurred on Wednesday afternoon, November 26, at 17th and I Street NW, prompting a massive law enforcement response. 

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed the shooting of the two guardsmen, while the White House announced that President Donald Trump was briefed on the unfolding violence.

Suspect injured and transported to hospital

Law enforcement officials moved quickly to neutralize the threat.

Senior law enforcement sources confirmed that the suspect who allegedly opened fire on the National Guardsmen was injured during the confrontation and has been transported to an area hospital.

The suspect's condition remains unknown at this time.

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) posted on social media that the "scene is secured" and confirmed that "one suspect is in custody," effectively ending the immediate danger to the public.

They also added, "officials continue to gather information on this critical incident and will have an update for the community shortly."

Trump says the perpetrator will pay a 'steep price'

The White House wasted no time addressing the violence. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt issued a statement confirming that the Commander-in-Chief was fully engaged.

"The White House is aware and actively monitoring this tragic situation," Leavitt stated, assuring people that the administration was staying on top of the security breach.

The president said in a statement, "The animal that shot the two National Guardsmen, with both being critically wounded, and now in two separate hospitals, is also severely wounded, but regardless, will pay a very steep price."

He added, "God bless our Great National Guard, and all of our Military and Law Enforcement. These are truly Great People. I, as President of the United States, and everyone associated with the Office of the Presidency, am with you!"

Kristi Noem asks for prayers for the wounded guardsmen

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem was among the first to break the news to the public, and she shifted the focus immediately to the well-being of the service members.

"Please join me in praying for the two National Guardsmen who were just shot moments ago in Washington DC," Noem said in a statement.

She confirmed that the DHS was working hand-in-glove with local law enforcement to gather more information about the attack.

Video from the scene reportedly showed two men in uniform being treated on the ground.