Two National Guard soldiers are reported to have died after being shot near the White House in Washington DC.
The American capital's police department declared a "critical incident" around 2.40pm local time (7.40pm GMT) and locked down the immediate area of the shooting.
GB News understands the shooting took place just a stone's throw from the White House at 17th and I Street.
DC Mayor Muriel Bowser told a press conference the shooting of the two National Guard troops was a "targeted attack".
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West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey seemingly confirmed the deaths in an X post shortly after the incident.
He said: "It is with great sorrow that we can confirm both members of the West Virginia National Guard who were shot earlier today in Washington, DC have passed away from their injuries."
"These brave West Virginians lost their lives in the service of their country. We are in ongoing contact with federal officials as the investigation continues.
"Our entire state grieves with their families, their loved ones, and the Guard community.
"West Virginia will never forget their service or their sacrifice, and we will demand full accountability for this horrific act."
Two National Guard have died after being shot near the White House in Washington DC
| GB NEWSThe White House has yet to corroborate the Governor's statement.
Addressing the incident earlier, President Donald Trump said: "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. God bless our Great National Guard, and all of our Military and Law Enforcement," the US leader said on Truth Social.
"These are truly Great People. I, as President of the United States, and everyone associated with the Office of the Presidency, am with you!"
GB News understands that President Trump was not in the US capital at the time.
Vice President JD Vance, while addressing armed forces personnel in Kentucky ahead of Thanksgiving, said: "We still don’t know the motive."
Secretary of War Pete Hesgeth confirmed that President Trump had requested 500 additional National Guard troops to be deployed to the US capital following the incident.
A ground stop has also been ordered at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) for security reasons.
Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem said on X: "Please join me in praying for the two National Guardsmen who were just shot moments ago in Washington DC"
Photos from the scene showed a man in National Guard uniform being loaded into an ambulance
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"DHS is working with local law enforcement to gather more information," she added
The US capital's Police Department confirmed on X: "Critical Incident: MPD is on the scene of a shooting at 17th and I Street, NW. Please avoid the area. Updates to come."
"The scene is secured. One suspect is in custody," the force added moments later.
Footage from the scene showed a heavily armed police presence along with scores of emergency vehicles just a few blocks from the White House.
Armed police and National Guard personnel flooded the scene
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The National Guard said in a statement: "We’re aware of the incident and we are working closely with the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and other law enforcement agencies," the statement says.
"The health and safety of our service members is our top priority as we continue to support the citizens and visitors of Washington, DC," they added.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) also confirmed it was "on scene to assist during this ongoing shooting investigation".
"The president has been briefed," White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said.
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