Two US National Guard soldiers were shot in downtown Washington, near the White House, Homeland Security Secretary Christie Noem said.
Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth said they were in critical condition. West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey earlier said the wounded died at the hospital, but later clarified that there were conflicting reports about their fate.
Police have announced the arrest of a suspect. The crime scene was cordoned off, and federal agents arrived.
“The animal is also seriously injured, but will pay a very high price,“ wrote Donald Trump on Truth Social, who flew to Florida but was informed of the emergency.
US Vice President J.D. Vance said authorities still do not know the attacker's motive. According to Jeff Carroll, assistant chief of police for special operations at the Metropolitan Police Department, he acted alone.
The incident occurred in an area that houses diplomatic missions. Witnesses reported hearing two gunshots.
The White House area was cordoned off after the shooting, and security measures were increased.
The head of the Pentagon announced that an additional 500 National Guard troops would be deployed to Washington.