Drama unfolded near the White House as two West Virginia National Guard soldiers were shot in a bold, chilling attack Wednesday. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth revealed that President Donald Trump ordered 500 more Guard members to the nation's capital to boost security. Already, 2,188 troops are on duty in the city. The brave soldiers were critically injured just two blocks northwest of the White House. FBI Director Kash Patel and Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser confirmed the troops were hospitalized in serious condition. Bowser called it a "targeted shooting," raising serious concerns. Initially, the West Virginia governor said the guardsmen had died, but he later corrected himself, saying his office was "receiving conflicting reports" about their condition. Meanwhile, a suspect was arrested and also wounded, though officials believe the injuries are not life-threatening. Law enforcement is busy digging through surveillance videos. Authorities say the shooter walked up to the soldiers and pulled out a gun, sparking a quick exchange of fire. Investigators are working hard to find out why the shooter picked these troops as targets. Social media videos captured emergency responders performing CPR on one soldier and treating the other amid flashing police lights and helicopters thundering overhead. Eyewitness Stacy Walters described hearing two gunshots and seeing people running in panic. "It's such a beautiful day. Who would do this, and we're getting ready for the holidays?" she said. The scene was quickly blocked off as Secret Service agents and the ATF joined the investigation. President Trump, celebrating Thanksgiving in Florida, was quick to respond on social media. He called the attacker an "animal" and promised that they "will pay a very steep price." He also praised the National Guard and law enforcement as "truly Great People" and showed strong support from the highest office. Vice President JD Vance, speaking from Fort Campbell, Kentucky, urged everyone to pray for the injured soldiers. He reminded all how soldiers – active, reserve, or Guard – are the "sword and the shield of the United States of America." The National Guard presence in Washington has been controversial, with heavy debate about their role in fighting crime and supporting police. Over 300 West Virginia Guard members were sent to Washington in August, with about 160 staying until the end of the year. They have been busy patrolling streets, guarding events, and even picking up trash. A federal judge recently ordered the end of this deployment, but that decision is paused for now as the Trump administration considers its next move. The city remains tense, with leaders including Mayor Bowser closely monitoring the situation as they head into the holiday season.