By The People’s Paper MS Staff
WASHINGTON — National Guard troops assigned to Joint Task Force–District of Columbia (JTF-DC), operating under the DC Safe and Beautiful mission, responded swiftly to an active shooting incident and provided emergency medical aid to a bystander on the National Mall on May 4, according to the U.S. Army official website.
U.S. Secret Service officials reported that at approximately 3:30 p.m., agents monitoring the White House perimeter observed a man suspected of carrying a firearm near 15th Street and Independence Avenue Southwest, close to the Washington Monument. When officers approached, the individual identified as 45-year-old Michael Marx allegedly attempted to flee and opened fire. Law enforcement returned fire, striking the suspect multiple times.
National Guardsmen positioned nearby immediately reacted to the sound of gunfire.
“We were stationed at 14th Street and Constitution Avenue when the shots rang out,” said U.S. Army Sgt. Lionel Duplessis, a Mississippi National Guard combat medic. “As soon as we heard them, we moved quickly toward the scene.”
The response team, led by U.S. Army 2nd Lt. William Harger and Sgt. 1st Class Taurian Haynes, assisted U.S. Park Police in securing the area and evacuating civilians. During the response, Guardsmen identified a teenage bystander who suffered minor injuries after a ricochet bullet grazed both feet.
Duplessis provided immediate care, focusing on stabilizing the injured teen and maintaining calm amid the chaos.
“My priority was keeping the patient calm and the situation under control,” he said.
Officials noted that the rapid, coordinated response reflects the National Guard’s dual role as a trained military force and a community-based partner supporting civilian authorities during emergencies.
“Our presence helps ensure public safety so people can continue to experience the city,” Duplessis added. “Being able to care for both Guardsmen and civilians is something I take seriously.”
Joint Task Force–DC Commander U.S. Army Col. Larry Doane praised the team’s actions.
“We’re extremely proud of Sgt. Duplessis and the entire unit,” Doane said. “Our Guardsmen consistently demonstrate their commitment by running toward danger to protect and serve the public.”
