Trendpills
The FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force is leading an investigation into the motives of a gunman who ambushed and wounded two National Guard members near the White House on Wednesday evening. The suspect, identified as 28-year-old Joshua Drugger of suburban Maryland, was killed at the scene when the Guardsmen returned fire.
The attack occurred at a security checkpoint at 15th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, a block from the White House. Authorities said Drugger approached the post on foot and opened fire with a semi-automatic rifle. The two D.C. National Guard members sustained non-life-threatening injuries and have since been released from the hospital. David Sundberg, the assistant director in charge of the FBI's Washington field office, stated that the incident is being investigated as an "act of terrorism."
Investigators are focused on determining what prompted the assault. A key piece of evidence is a multi-page document expressing anti-government views that was found on Drugger's person. The FBI is examining the gunman's background, personal life, and online activities to understand his motivations and to see if he acted alone or had connections to any extremist groups. Officials are exploring a "domestic violent extremism nexus" in the case.
The shooting has drawn attention to the persistent threats against government institutions and personnel. The checkpoint where the incident took place was part of a heightened security perimeter that has been in place around the White House complex. Federal agents are currently analyzing Drugger's electronic devices to piece together the events and ideology that led to the violence. As the investigation into the targeted attack continues, authorities have not yet publicly detailed the specific content of Drugger's writings or any affiliations he may have had. The probe remains ongoing.
