National Guard Shooting Suspect Now Faces First-Degree Murder Charge

A suspect is now charged with first-degree murder after a National Guard soldier died from her injuries. The shooting occurred near the White House last Wednesday. Two soldiers were critically wounded in the attack.

The U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia announced the upgraded charge on Friday. According to the Associated Press, the accused is a 29-year-old Afghan national. He previously worked with U.S. forces during the Afghanistan War.

Victims Served in D.C. Protection Mission

The fallen soldier is Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, age 20. She was a military police officer with the West Virginia National Guard. Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains hospitalized in very critical condition.

Both were deployed as part of a security mission in the capital. They were assisting with a federalized crime-fighting operation. The governor of West Virginia ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in Beckstrom’s honor.

Suspect’s Background and Ongoing Investigation

The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, entered the U.S. in 2021. He was resettled through an evacuation program for Afghan allies. Officials confirmed his asylum was approved during the previous administration.

According to Reuters, investigators are still determining a motive. They have been executing search warrants in Washington state, where the suspect lived. The U.S. attorney stated that more charges are expected as the probe continues.

The suspect reportedly worked for a CIA-backed unit before immigrating. He had been living with his family and was described by neighbors as quiet. He had recently struggled to find steady work.

The upgraded murder charge underscores the gravity of the attack on military personnel. This National Guard shooting case continues to develop as the second soldier fights for his life.

Thought you’d like to know

Who was the National Guard member who died?

Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, was the soldier who died. She was a military police officer from the West Virginia National Guard. She had volunteered for the D.C. security mission.

What is the suspect being charged with?

The suspect faces a first-degree murder charge. He also faces multiple counts of assault and firearm offenses. More charges are expected as the investigation proceeds.

Where did the shooting take place?

The attack happened near the White House in Washington, D.C. The soldiers were on duty as part of a protective mission. The area is known for its high security.

What was the suspect’s background?

He is an Afghan national who worked with a CIA-backed unit. He came to the U.S. through a resettlement program in 2021. He had been living in Washington state with his family.

What is the condition of the other soldier?

Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe remains in very critical condition. He was hospitalized alongside Specialist Beckstrom. The West Virginia governor described him as a hero.