U.S. Park Police Officer Shot in Washington During Ambush; Suspects Still at Large

On the evening of March 23, 2026, a U.S. Park Police officer was seriously wounded in a shooting in Washington, D.C., officials said. As of March 24, 2026, authorities described the incident as an ambush and confirmed the injured officer was transported to a hospital after receiving on-scene care.

Park Service Police Chief Scott Brecht said two officers were traveling in an unmarked white Tesla while conducting an investigation when two gunmen opened fire. D.C. Metropolitan Police Interim Chief Jeff Carroll said the officer appeared to have been targeted. The wounded officer continued driving after being struck, then pulled over and was given first aid before being airlifted by a U.S. Park Police helicopter to an area hospital. D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Service public information officer Vito Maggiolo said the initial call came in at about 7:30 p.m. A law enforcement official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said the officer suffered a shoulder wound and was in serious but stable condition.

Federal agencies are assisting local investigators and, according to statements posted by Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel, senior officials have been briefed and the FBI is supporting the probe. Authorities reported the suspects remained at large early Tuesday as detectives pursued leads and reviewed the circumstances of the ambush.