Two West Virginia National Guard members killed near White House, state's governor says

Two West Virginia National Guard members who were shot Wednesday near the White House have died, the state's governor said.

Governor Patrick Morrisey confirmed their deaths in a social media post. "We are in ongoing contact with federal officials as the investigation continues," he said.

A suspect, now in custody, was also shot and has injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening, according to a law enforcement official not authorised to discuss the matter publicly and who spoke to AP on condition of anonymity. One National Guard member was shot in the head, according to a person familiar with the details of the incident who spoke to AP on condition of anonymity.

Two women exited the metro station just after the shots were fired, and someone told them: "run."

Emma McDonald and Leila Christopher told the AP that they ran to a cafe and hunkered down with others, including one that told them they'd heard six gunshots in quick succession.

Several minutes later, McDonald saw an EMT truck pull up, and then responders rolling a stretcher carrying a National Guard member whose head was covered in blood, she said. Eventually they were told the area was secured.

In Fort Campbell, Kentucky, Vice President JD Vance urged "everybody who's a person of faith" to pray for the two National Guardsmen. He cautioned that much remained unknown, including the motive of the shooter.

"I think it's a sombre reminder that soldiers, whether they're active duty, reserve or National Guard, our soldiers are the sword and the shield of the United States of America," Vance said as he delivered a Thanksgiving message to troops.

In a message posted on social media, Senate Majority Leader John Thune wrote that his "thoughts and prayers are with the National Guardsmen who were attacked this afternoon."

"I urge you to keep them in your prayers too," he added.

- AP

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