National Guard Member Dies in Washington DC Shooting; Suspect Linked to CIA-Affiliated Afghan Units
Published 27 November 2025
Highlights
- National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died following a shooting in Washington DC; Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains in critical condition.
- The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, has been charged with assault with intent to kill and firearm possession.
- Lakanwal, who worked with CIA-backed units in Afghanistan, entered the US under a resettlement program in 2021.
- The shooting occurred near the White House during a high-visibility patrol by National Guard troops deployed to combat crime.
- President Trump has called for a review of Afghan immigrants admitted during the Biden administration following the incident.
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Rewritten Article
Headline: National Guard Member Dies in Washington DC Shooting; Suspect Linked to CIA-Affiliated Afghan Units
In a tragic turn of events, National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom, 20, has died following a shooting incident in Washington DC, President Donald Trump announced on Thursday. Beckstrom and fellow guardsman Andrew Wolfe, 24, were shot near Farragut Square, just blocks from the White House, on Wednesday afternoon. Wolfe remains in critical condition.
The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, has been apprehended and faces multiple charges, including assault with intent to kill and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. Lakanwal, who was shot and subdued by other guardsmen at the scene, is currently receiving medical treatment for non-life-threatening injuries.
Background and Deployment
Beckstrom and Wolfe, both members of the West Virginia National Guard, were part of a deployment initiated by the Trump administration to address rising crime rates in major US cities. The troops, who have been stationed in the capital since August, were conducting a routine patrol when the ambush-style attack occurred.
Suspect's Background and Investigation
Lakanwal's history has drawn significant attention due to his previous work with CIA-backed military units in Afghanistan. He entered the United States in 2021 under a resettlement program designed for Afghans who assisted US operations. The FBI has expanded its investigation, searching properties linked to Lakanwal and seizing electronic devices for further examination.
Political Reactions and Implications
President Trump, in response to the shooting, has ordered an additional 500 National Guard troops to Washington DC and called for a comprehensive review of Afghan immigrants admitted during the Biden administration. The incident has sparked a broader debate on immigration policies and the vetting process for refugees.
Community and Family Reactions
The loss of Beckstrom has deeply affected her community in West Virginia. Governor Patrick Morrisey praised her courage and dedication, while her father expressed profound grief, acknowledging the severity of her injuries before her passing. "She served with extraordinary resolve," Morrisey stated in a heartfelt tribute.
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Scenario Analysis
The shooting in Washington DC has intensified discussions around US immigration policies, particularly concerning individuals entering the country under special programs. As the investigation unfolds, authorities may face pressure to reassess the vetting processes for refugees and immigrants, especially those with military backgrounds.
Politically, the incident could influence upcoming legislative debates on national security and immigration reform. Experts suggest that the administration's response, including the deployment of additional troops and potential policy reviews, may shape public perception and impact future electoral outcomes.
The tragic loss of Sarah Beckstrom and the critical condition of Andrew Wolfe underscore the risks faced by National Guard members deployed in domestic operations. As the nation mourns, there is a renewed focus on ensuring the safety and support of those serving in such capacities.
In a tragic turn of events, National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom, 20, has died following a shooting incident in Washington DC, President Donald Trump announced on Thursday. Beckstrom and fellow guardsman Andrew Wolfe, 24, were shot near Farragut Square, just blocks from the White House, on Wednesday afternoon. Wolfe remains in critical condition.
The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, has been apprehended and faces multiple charges, including assault with intent to kill and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. Lakanwal, who was shot and subdued by other guardsmen at the scene, is currently receiving medical treatment for non-life-threatening injuries.
Background and Deployment
Beckstrom and Wolfe, both members of the West Virginia National Guard, were part of a deployment initiated by the Trump administration to address rising crime rates in major US cities. The troops, who have been stationed in the capital since August, were conducting a routine patrol when the ambush-style attack occurred.
Suspect's Background and Investigation
Lakanwal's history has drawn significant attention due to his previous work with CIA-backed military units in Afghanistan. He entered the United States in 2021 under a resettlement program designed for Afghans who assisted US operations. The FBI has expanded its investigation, searching properties linked to Lakanwal and seizing electronic devices for further examination.
Political Reactions and Implications
President Trump, in response to the shooting, has ordered an additional 500 National Guard troops to Washington DC and called for a comprehensive review of Afghan immigrants admitted during the Biden administration. The incident has sparked a broader debate on immigration policies and the vetting process for refugees.
Community and Family Reactions
The loss of Beckstrom has deeply affected her community in West Virginia. Governor Patrick Morrisey praised her courage and dedication, while her father expressed profound grief, acknowledging the severity of her injuries before her passing. "She served with extraordinary resolve," Morrisey stated in a heartfelt tribute.
What this might mean
The shooting in Washington DC has intensified discussions around US immigration policies, particularly concerning individuals entering the country under special programs. As the investigation unfolds, authorities may face pressure to reassess the vetting processes for refugees and immigrants, especially those with military backgrounds.
Politically, the incident could influence upcoming legislative debates on national security and immigration reform. Experts suggest that the administration's response, including the deployment of additional troops and potential policy reviews, may shape public perception and impact future electoral outcomes.
The tragic loss of Sarah Beckstrom and the critical condition of Andrew Wolfe underscore the risks faced by National Guard members deployed in domestic operations. As the nation mourns, there is a renewed focus on ensuring the safety and support of those serving in such capacities.
