Shooting in Washington: FBI Investigates Possible Terrorist Act

FBI Investigates Possible Terrorist Attack

FBI Director Kash Patel announced on Thursday that the shooting targeting two National Guard members in downtown Washington has now been classified as a terrorist investigation. “This is an ongoing terrorist investigation,” he stated during a press conference.

Afghan Suspect Arrested at the Scene

The alleged shooter, Ramanula Lekkenwall, a 29-year-old Afghan, was arrested immediately after the attack. According to the FBI, he traveled across the country by car with the intention of targeting military personnel deployed in the capital. He entered the United States in 2021 as part of the “Allies Welcome” operation, initiated following the Taliban’s return to Afghanistan.

Investigation Examining Background

Kash Patel specified that the suspect reportedly had links to “allied forces” in Afghanistan and that a thorough investigation is underway to clarify his background and possible motivations.

Two Soldiers Seriously Injured

According to Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser, the two National Guard members were shot near a metro station in the downtown area, not far from the White House. The assailant, who was injured during the incident, has been placed under arrest.

Increased Security in the Capital

Units from the National Guard from several states have already been deployed to Washington since the summer as part of federal efforts to combat urban crime. Following the shooting, President Donald Trump, accompanied by the Secretary of Defense, announced the deployment of an additional 500 soldiers, bringing the total number of reservists in the capital to over 2,500.