A shooting near a busy holiday market in Washington DC left members of the National Guard injured and spread panic among people in the area. The incident happened Saturday evening as crowds gathered to shop and enjoy the seasonal event.
According to a witness named Leila Christopher, she and her friend were walking toward the market when National Guard members shouted a warning telling them to run. She said the moment felt unreal and frightening as people tried to understand what was happening.
Christopher reported seeing one guard carried out on a stretcher with medical equipment attached to assist emergency responders. She said the victim’s face appeared bloody and that the scene was filled with fear and confusion.
Law enforcement responded quickly, and the area soon filled with police vehicles and emergency crews. Officials have not yet shared full details about what led to the shooting. The Washington Metropolitan Police Department has confirmed that an investigation is underway. Updates are expected as authorities release verified information. For official public safety notices, updates can be found on the Metropolitan Police Department’s website.
The witness said she and her friend were unable to leave the area for several hours because law enforcement secured the scene and gathered evidence. She shared that people nearby appeared shaken, some crying and others trying to call loved ones to let them know they were safe.
A spokesperson for the National Guard has not yet released the condition of the injured service members. The Guard operates in Washington DC during major events and emergencies under federal direction. More background on federal deployment guidelines can be found at NationalGuard.mil.
The shooting has raised new concerns about public safety during the holiday season. Local officials are urging the public to stay aware of emergency alerts and follow instructions from authorities if they are in a restricted area.
This is a developing story, and updates will continue as more verified details are released by officials.