The recent shooting of two National Guard members in Washington, D.C., has raised significant concerns and questions regarding the incident. The authorities identified the suspect as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national who is currently in custody. The motive behind the attack remains unclear as the investigation continues.
On the evening of the incident, President Donald Trump announced the death of 20-year-old Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, who succumbed to her injuries following the shooting that took place on Wednesday. Her colleague, 24-year-old Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, is hospitalized in critical condition. Both were part of the West Virginia National Guard deployed to the capital as part of Trump’s crime-fighting initiative aiming to support local law enforcement.
Specialist Beckstrom, hailing from Summersville, West Virginia, had enlisted in the National Guard shortly after graduating from Webster County High School in June 2023. The West Virginia National Guard highlighted her commitment to ensuring the safety of the nation's capital, noting her exemplary service as a military police officer. Meanwhile, Staff Sgt. Wolfe, a Martinsburg, West Virginia, native who graduated in 2019, had been serving since February 2019, building a reputation as an engaged and high-achieving individual both academically and athletically.
According to U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro, Lakanwal launched an “ambush-style” attack using a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver. Investigators viewed video footage that showed Lakanwal approaching and immediately opening fire on the National Guard members. A law enforcement official disclosed that at least one Guard member returned fire during the confrontation, while other troops managed to subdue Lakanwal before he was taken into custody. Fortunately, his injuries are not considered life-threatening.
Lakanwal, 29, entered the United States in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome, which was initiated during the Biden administration to evacuate and resettle Afghans amid the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. Initially applying for asylum during the Biden tenure, his status was granted under the Trump administration. This program has been critical in providing refuge to numerous Afghans at risk of Taliban retaliation, although it has faced scrutiny regarding the vetting processes involved.
Prior to relocating to the U.S., Lakanwal was involved with the U.S. government, serving as part of a partner force in Kandahar, and had also worked within a special Afghan Army unit known as the Zero Units, which were associated with the CIA. His former landlord noted that he was residing in Washington state with his wife and five children prior to the incident.
As of now, Lakanwal faces charges that include assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. Given the critical condition of the victims, these charges may be upgraded to first-degree murder. Pirro mentioned the complexities surrounding the suspect’s motives are still under investigation.
In light of this incident, President Trump announced the deployment of an additional 500 National Guard troops to Washington, D.C., although it remains uncertain how these troops will be sourced. The current landscape includes approximately 949 members from the D.C. National Guard, which has the largest presence in the area, with additional forces from various states supporting the operations in the capital.
This incident raises profound questions about security and the vetting processes of individuals entering the United States, particularly those who have worked with U.S. forces abroad. As investigations unfold, the focus remains on ensuring safety and understanding the dynamics leading to such an attack.
