Washington: The suspect who allegedly shot and critically wounded two National Guard members near the White House on Wednesday is an Afghan migrant who entered the United States in 2021, according to US media reports.

NBC News and The Washington Post reported that law enforcement officials and individuals familiar with the investigation identified the suspect as an Afghan national who had been living in Washington state. NBC also reported that the FBI is examining whether the shooting may have been an act of terrorism.

Federal agencies have not released the suspect’s name, and the FBI — now leading the investigation — has not responded to a request for comment from AFP.

Confusion initially arose after West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey announced that the troops had died, before later clarifying that his office was “receiving conflicting reports about the condition.” His office has not provided further updates.

The suspect, who was taken into custody, was also shot and suffered injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening, according to a law enforcement official who spoke to AP on condition of anonymity. One of the National Guard members suffered a gunshot wound to the head, another person familiar with the case told AP.

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said President Donald Trump ordered additional Guard forces to Washington following the attack. According to the latest government update, 2,188 troops are currently assigned to the joint task force operating in the capital.