The man accused of shooting two National Guard members now faces first-degree murder charges after one of the soldiers passed away, as announced by the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia. Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, were critically injured in the shooting near the White House on Wednesday. President Trump confirmed Beckstrom’s death on Thursday.
Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national who worked with the CIA during the Afghanistan War, has been charged with one count of first-degree murder and two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed. Beckstrom and Wolfe were part of the West Virginia National Guard deployed under President Trump’s direction to federalize the D.C. police force. Trump labeled the incident a “terrorist attack” and criticized the Biden administration for allowing Afghans who supported U.S. forces during the Afghanistan War to enter the country.
Trump has expressed a desire to halt migration from developing countries and remove millions of immigrants from the U.S. Joseph Edlow, the director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, announced a pause on all asylum decisions until enhanced vetting procedures are implemented.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro mentioned that additional charges are forthcoming beyond the murder charge. She extended condolences to Beckstrom’s family, emphasizing her voluntary service and tragic fate on the streets of Washington, D.C. Investigations into the suspect’s motive are ongoing, with warrants being executed in Washington and other regions.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth visited National Guard troops in Washington, D.C., leading a prayer for Beckstrom and Wolfe. Hegseth paid tribute to Beckstrom’s dedication and noted Wolfe’s critical condition. West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey ordered flags at half-staff in honor of Beckstrom, praising both soldiers for their bravery and service to the state.