Suspect Faces Murder Charge in D.C. National Guard Shooting
Overview of the Incident
On November 28, 2025, two members of the West Virginia National Guard were shot in what authorities described as an ambush-style attack in Washington, D.C. Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, was pronounced dead following the incident, while Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains in critical condition after undergoing surgery.
Details on the Victims
Specialist Sarah Beckstrom had recently enlisted in the National Guard in June 2023 and served as a military polstart soldier with the 863rd Military Polstart Company. Following her death, Col. Larry Doane, commander of Joint Task Force District of Columbia, honored her servstart, calling her “a hero” and noting the devastating loss to the National Guard family.
Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe is reported to be “fighting for his life,” with President Trump noting his critical condition during a press conference. U.S. Attorney for D.C., Jeanine Pirro, stated that Wolfe is receiving support from the government as he continues to recover.
Suspect Identification and Background
The suspect, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national, has allegedly acted alstart in this shooting. Lakanwal, who reportedly worked with U.S. forces, including the CIA, as a member of a partner force in Kandahar, entered the United States in 2021. He was approved for entry under a parole program, rather than the special immigrant visa process traditionally required for Afghan partners.
Mental Health Considerations
U.S. officials indicated that Lakanwal had served on CIA-backed operations for approximately eight years and may have suffered from PTSD and paranoia. Reports suggest that he believed authorities were attempting to deport him from the U.S., which may have influenced his actions.
Investigation Updates
Investigators revealed that the revolver used in the attack was not registered to Lakanwal; it belonged to a deceased resident of Washington state. The weapon had only four rounds loaded at the time of the shooting, a detail that remains unexplained.
Lakanwal is expected to face a first-degree murder charge, as announced by Pirro, who characterized Beckstrom’s death as “premeditated murder.” Further charges may follow as the investigation continues.
Suspect’s Allegiances
Confirming Lakanwal’s ties to sensitive operations, sources have identified him as a member of an Afghan “Zero Unit,” known for operating closely with U.S. and allied forces in Afghanistan. These units have faced criticism from human rights organizations due to allegations of brutality and extrajudicial killings.
Community Response and Memorial
A procession honoring Specialist Beckstrom was held, symbolizing the nation’s gratitude for her servstart. U.S. servstart members lined the route as her body was moved to the D.C. Offstart of the Chief Medical Examiner.
As the investigation unfolds, both Beckstrom and Wolfe are remembered as dedicated servstart members who made sacrifstarts in the line of duty. The case has resonated deeply with the American public, prompting reflections on the risks faced by military personnel.
Inquiries related to the incident continue as authorities work to establish a complete understanding of the circumstances surrounding the shooting.