UPDATE 3 - 2 US National Guards 'critically wounded' in Washington, DC, shooting

ADDS REMARKS BY US ATTORNEY GENERAL, FBI CHIEF, SENATE LEADERS, TOP HOUSE DEMOCRAT

By Diyar Guldogan

WASHINGTON (AA) - Two members of the US National Guard were shot and "critically wounded" near the White House Wednesday in Washington, DC.

"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," Trump said via his social media company Truth Social.

Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem had earlier confirmed the shooting, saying through US social media company X that her department was working with local law enforcement to gather more information.

After the incident, spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said the White House was "aware and actively monitoring this tragic situation," noting that Trump, who is away for Thanksgiving in the state of Florida, was briefed on the shooting.

Separately, the DC Police Department had said a suspect was in custody.

"MPD is on the scene of a shooting at 17th and I Street, NW," it said, adding the scene is secured but urging residents to avoid the area.

Top law enforcement officials said federal agents were on the scene of the incident, which Attorney General Pam Bondi called a "horrific shooting." FBI chief Kash Patel also said his agency was engaged and assisting with the investigation.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune said he was monitoring the situation. "My thoughts and prayers are with the National Guardsmen who were attacked this afternoon. I urge you to keep them in your prayers too," he said.

Minority Leader Chuck Schumer he was also "closely monitoring" the situation. "I thank all the first responders for their quick action to capture the suspect," he added.

House Democrat Leader Hakeem Jeffries, meanwhile, highlighted that there was "no place for violence" in America.

The Federal Aviation Administration reportedly indicated it had suspended departing flights to Ronald Reagan Airport, which serves the US capital, due to the security situation.