Two West Virginia National Guard members injured in a shooting near the White House on November 22, 2023, have died from their injuries, Governor Jim Justice announced November 23, 2023.The shooting occured near 16th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C., prompting a large law enforcement response and a temporary lockdown of the area.
The deceased soldiers have been identified as Specialist First Class Chad Michael Dean and Sergeant William Jerome McDuffie. They were providing security support in the nation’s capital when the incident unfolded. The shooting underscores the risks faced by service members deployed in defense of national landmarks and highlights the ongoing concerns about security in Washington, D.C. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and the motive of the perpetrator.
According to police reports, a suspect, identified as 25-year-old Jesse James Pemberton of Seaford, Delaware, approached the guards and made threatening statements before discharging a firearm.pemberton was taken into custody and is facing charges related to the shooting. The incident prompted an immediate examination by the Metropolitan Police Department and federal authorities.
Governor Justice expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers, stating, “This is a heartbreaking loss for our entire state. These brave men and women put their lives on the line to protect our freedoms, and we will never forget their sacrifice.” Flags at all state buildings in West Virginia were ordered to be flown at half-staff in honor of Dean and McDuffie.
