Afghan Man Charged with Murder After Shooting National Guard Members

A man originally from Afghanistan has been charged with murder following a shooting incident near the White House that left one U.S. National Guard member dead and another in critical condition. The suspect, 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, faces a first-degree murder charge after 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom succumbed to her injuries, as confirmed by the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, Jeanine Pirro.

The shooting occurred on Wednesday afternoon when Lakanwal allegedly ambushed two members of the West Virginia National Guard, Sarah Beckstrom and Andrew Wolfe, aged 24. According to Pirro, Lakanwal opened fire without provocation, targeting the soldiers who were deployed to patrol the capital. The investigation is ongoing to determine how he entered the United States.

President Donald Trump announced Beckstrom’s death during a speech on Thanksgiving Day, stating, “She’s just passed away. She’s no longer with us. She’s looking down at us right now.” Trump also mentioned that Wolfe is currently in critical condition, emphasizing that “the other young man is fighting for his life.”

Investigators allege that Lakanwal traveled from Washington State to Washington, D.C., specifically to target the National Guard members. While authorities have not disclosed a motive for the attack, Pirro indicated that multiple charges are expected as the case develops.

Lakanwal’s background raises further questions. He arrived in the United States in 2021, following the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan, and applied for asylum in 2024. He was granted asylum in April 2024, likely after a thorough vetting process, according to government sources. Notably, Lakanwal reportedly worked with the CIA during his time in Afghanistan, as confirmed by CIA Director John Ratcliffe.

The U.S. government has implemented programs such as Operation Allies Welcome to assist Afghans who aided American military efforts, allowing them to stay in the country temporarily. According to the Department of Homeland Security, over 40% of these refugees were eligible for Special Immigrant Visas due to their contributions and the risks they faced.

As the situation unfolds, the nation grapples with the implications of this tragic incident and the broader context of immigration and security. The investigation remains active, with law enforcement working diligently to uncover more details surrounding the suspect’s actions and motivations.