The shooting of two US National Guard soldiers near the White House is being investigated as an act of terrorism, FBI director Kash Patel said on Thursday. The confirmation came a day after the attack left both troops critically wounded, according to AFP.Patel told reporters, “It is an ongoing investigation of terrorism,” adding that multiple agencies were coordinating on the case.
The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon a few blocks from the White House, close to the intersection of 17th Street NW and I Street NW, an area that includes the Eisenhower executive office building used by White House staff, US media reported.The White House, Main Treasury and Freedman’s Bank Building were placed under lockdown following the gunfire, according to USA Today and other outlets.President Donald Trump issued a statement saying the attacker would face severe consequences.“The animal that shot the two National Guardsmen… is also severely wounded, but regardless, will pay a very steep price,” he said. He added: “God bless our Great National Guard, and all of our Military and Law Enforcement… I… am with you!”
Suspect identified as Afghan national
Authorities have identified the accused as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national who entered the US in 2021. He reportedly worked with the CIA in Afghanistan.A spokesperson for joint task force DC, Andrew Enriquez, said they were supporting local and federal responders. “We have a response under way right now… we’re not going to release details at the moment.”White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the administration was monitoring developments. “The White House is aware and actively monitoring this tragic situation,” she said.
