Two National Guard members in critical condition after shooting near White House: AP source

TwoNational Guardmembers were shot Wednesday near theWhite Houseand are in critical condition, according to a law enforcement official not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and who spoke to AP on condition of anonymity.

A suspect who was in custody also was shot and has injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening, the source said.

Emergency medical responders transported all three victims to a hospital, according toVito Maggiolo, the public information officer for the DC Fire and Emergency Services.

Police tape cordoned off the scene where emergency fire and police vehicles’ lights flashed and helicopter blades thudded overhead. Agents from theU.S.Secret Serviceand theBureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosiveswere on scene, asNational Guardtroops stood sentry nearby. At least one helicopter landed on theNational Mall.

The Joint DC Task Forceconfirmed they responded to the incident after reports of the shooting. TheMetropolitan Police Departmentsaid they were responding to a shooting, but didn’t immediately provide more information.

A spokesperson for MayorMuriel Bowsersaid that local leaders were actively monitoring the situation. Bowser had spent the morning at aThanksgiving Dayevent at theConvention Centerand then held a press conference to explain why she was not seeking reelection.

PresidentDonald Trumpwas at his West Palm Beach golf course when the shooting took place.

“The White House is aware and actively monitoring this tragic situation. The President has been briefed,” saidWhite House PressSecretaryKaroline Leavitt.

Hundreds ofNational Guardmembersfrom the districtand several states have been patrolling the nation’s capital after PresidentDonald Trumpin August issued anemergency orderin the capital, federalizing the local police force and sending in the guard from eight states and theDistrict of Columbia.