A chilling scene unfolded near the White House as two National Guard soldiers were shot in a brazen attack, leaving the nation reeling and questions swirling about the suspect and his motives. The incident, occurring near Farragut Metro station in Washington D.C., sent shockwaves through the capital and prompted an immediate investigation.
The soldiers, identified as 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe and 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom, had only been sworn in as guards a mere 24 hours before the ambush. The father of Ms. Beckstrom shared the agonizing news that her injuries were catastrophic, stating with heartbreaking honesty, “She has a mortal wound. It’s not going to be a recovery.” He remained stoic, refusing to elaborate further as he held his daughter’s hand.
Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the suspect, is now in custody after being shot during the confrontation. Prosecutors describe the attack as “ambush-style,” carried out with a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver. He faces serious charges, including assault with intent to kill, and the possibility of more severe charges looms depending on the soldiers’ conditions.
The investigation quickly revealed a disturbing connection: Lakanwal had previously worked with a special CIA-backed unit in the Afghan Army before emigrating to the United States. This revelation ignited a firestorm of political debate, with some demanding answers about vetting procedures and national security protocols.
Initial reports indicated Lakanwal arrived in the US in September 2021, coinciding with the withdrawal of American forces from Kabul. However, it has since been discovered his asylum status was actually granted by the Trump administration in April 2025, adding another layer of complexity to the unfolding story.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with soldiers and Secret Service agents converging on the suspect as bystanders fled in panic. One witness recounted hearing six gunshots in rapid succession, followed by the sight of a Guardsman being rushed to an ambulance, his head covered in blood.
The condition of both soldiers remains critical, with initial reports of fatalities later clarified as conflicting information. Governor Patrick Morrisey acknowledged the uncertainty, stating his office was awaiting more complete details while offering prayers for the injured service members and their families.
The shooting occurred just a block from the White House, prompting heightened security measures and a swift response from authorities. The National Guard, a vital reserve military force, plays a crucial role in both federal and state emergencies, often comprised of part-time members balancing military service with civilian lives.
The incident has sparked a national conversation about security, immigration, and the sacrifices made by those who serve. As investigators piece together the events leading up to the shooting, the nation holds its breath, hoping for the recovery of the wounded soldiers and seeking answers to the questions that linger in the aftermath of this shocking attack.
