What to Know This Morning: National Guard Shooting Near White House, Macy’s Parade, L.A. Fire Recovery and 'Stranger Things' Finale

Here’s what to know today: investigators are probing a near-White House shooting that left two National Guard members critically wounded and a suspect hospitalized. Major holiday events proceed across the country — from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York to communities in Los Angeles finding creative ways to observe the season after devastating wildfires. Fans are also flocking to the filming town of Netflix’s "Stranger Things" as the series concludes its final season.

Shooting near the White House

Authorities say two National Guard members on patrol were shot when a suspect rounded a corner, produced a firearm and opened fire. Both guardsmen were critically wounded and transported to a hospital. The suspect was also shot, treated at a hospital and later identified by senior law enforcement officials as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, whose last known residence was in Bellingham, Washington. Officials said Lakanwal arrived in the United States from Afghanistan in 2021.

The FBI is initially treating the incident as a potential act of terrorism while investigators work to determine motive. The White House said the president was briefed on the shooting. A relative of the suspect told reporters that he had served alongside U.S. Special Forces troops in Afghanistan for about 10 years before moving to the United States following the Taliban takeover.

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade returns to Manhattan

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade marches through New York City for its 99th edition, featuring 34 balloons and 28 floats. The route runs from West 77th Street and Central Park West to Macy’s Herald Square on 34th Street. Performers include Cynthia Erivo and musical talent from the Netflix series "KPop Demon Hunters." The parade will be broadcast and streamed nationally beginning at 8:30 a.m. in all U.S. time zones.

Los Angeles wildfire recovery and holiday resilience

Communities impacted by the January 7 wildfires in Los Angeles County continue to rebuild. Officials reported roughly 16,000 structures destroyed, at least 31 deaths and more than 57,000 acres burned across areas including Altadena, Pacific Palisades, Malibu and Sunset Mesa. Many survivors say the absence of familiar homes and decorations sharpens their appreciation for Thanksgiving; neighbors are hosting block parties, weekly game nights and other gatherings to preserve community ties.

Politics, courts and other national headlines

Recent developments in U.S. politics and courts include the dismissal of a Georgia election-interference case after a prosecutor announced he would drop the charges, and a federal court in North Carolina allowing a Republican-drawn congressional map that could alter next year’s House makeup. A federal appeals court also upheld an almost $1 million penalty related to a racketeering lawsuit stemming from 2016 election disputes. Separately, public criticism of a reporter’s appearance by the president has drawn attention and criticism.

International and miscellaneous news

In Hong Kong, a massive fire at a high-rise housing complex killed at least 55 people and left dozens missing; authorities opened a criminal investigation into the city’s deadliest blaze in decades. Health officials are warning of a highly contagious respiratory virus spreading ahead of the holidays that is not influenza or Covid. In lighter headlines, celebrity chef Guy Fieri suffered a serious leg injury while filming, and Campbell’s fired an executive accused of racist comments.

"Stranger Things" finale fuels tourism in Jackson, Georgia

The fifth and final season of Netflix’s "Stranger Things" premiered this week. Much of the series was filmed in Jackson, Georgia, which residents say has seen economic and cultural revitalization thanks to fan tourism. Reporter Maya Huter visited filming locations and spoke with locals who say the show helped revive businesses and bring steady visitor traffic, and who plan to preserve the town’s connection to the series beyond the finale.

Shopping and seasonal coverage

Black Friday deals are already rolling out, with early discounts and product roundups from major retailers. Shoppers are advised to consult expert reviews and verified deal trackers before making large purchases.

These are the top stories to follow this morning: the National Guard shooting and the FBI’s investigation, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, wildfire recovery in Los Angeles, and the local tourism boost tied to the conclusion of a major television series.