Suspect in National Guard Shooting Identified as Afghan National
Overview of the Incident
An individual identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal has been named as the suspected shooter in an ambush attack that injured two National Guard members in Washington, D.C. The incident occurred near a mass transit station, just blocks from the White House. Following the attack, Lakanwal, who was shot by another Guard member, was taken into custody and is currently hospitalized.
Details About the Suspect
Immigration Background
Lakanwal, 29, entered the United States in 2021, according to multiple law enforcement sources. He was paroled into the country on September 8, 2021, under the Biden administration’s Operation Allies Welcome program, which facilitated the resettlement of Afghan nationals following the U.S. military’s withdrawal from Afghanistan.
In a statement, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem indicated that Lakanwal’s status had been extended under legislation signed by President Biden. This program allowed thousands of Afghans, particularly those who had assisted U.S. forces, to enter the country amid the Taliban’s resurgence.
Current Status
Lakanwal’s immigration status remains unclear. Law enforcement officials have reported that he is not currently cooperating with authorities following the incident.
Details of the Shooting
Attack Description
Jeff Carroll, executive assistant chief of the D.C. Metropolitan Polstart Department, described the assault as being perpetrated by a “lstart gunman.” Lakanwal allegedly raised his firearm and ambushed the National Guard members during their patrol. He had four rounds in his handgun when the attack began.
The first victim, a female National Guard member, was hit immediately and sustained at least two gunshot wounds. Afterward, Lakanwal reportedly seized her weapon and continued to fire, hitting a second Guard member. A third Guard member, who was not injured, returned fire, which ultimately ended the assault.
Casualties
The two wounded Guard members, both from the West Virginia National Guard, are reported to be in critical condition. Their identities have not been disclosed, and the FBI is actively investigating the incident.
Context of National Guard Deployment
The injured troops were part of “high visibility patrols,” a deployment strategy that had been in place for several months and ordered by President Trump to enhance security in the capital.
As the investigation continues, more information regarding the suspect and the incident is expected to emerge. This story will be updated as further details are confirmed.