Smith & Wesson Revolver Used in DC National Guard Shooting Near White House

A suspect has been charged after two National Guard members were shot in Washington D.C. The attack happened on November 27, 2025, near the White House. Officials identified the firearm as a Smith & Wesson revolver. The investigation is being led by the FBI.

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro confirmed the weapon details at a press conference. The two victims remain in critical condition after surgery. According to Reuters, the suspect is a 29-year-old Afghan national who recently gained asylum.

Weapon and Attack Details Revealed

The firearm used was a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver. This is a repeating handgun with a six-round cylinder. The weapon was described as a classic “six-shooter” during the briefing.

The victims were ambushed near the Farragut West Metro Station. They were identified as Sarah Beckstrom and Andrew Wolfe. Both were new members of the West Virginia National Guard.

They had been sworn in less than a day before the attack. The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, allegedly opened fire without warning. Other Guardsmen at the scene returned fire and neutralized the threat.

Suspect’s Background and Cross-Country Journey

The suspect drove from Washington state to commit the act. He made a 40-hour journey to reach the nation’s capital. Law enforcement found his travel plans were deliberate.

Lakanwal entered the U.S. in September 2021. He arrived under Operation Allies Welcome after the Afghan withdrawal. He was granted asylum in April 2025, just months before the attack.

Officials confirm he worked with CIA-backed units in Kandahar. His specific role involved working with partner forces. This connection is now a central focus of the terrorism investigation.

Broader Security Implications and Response

President Donald Trump ordered 500 additional troops to D.C. following the attack. He labeled the shooting a “barbaric” act of terror. The statement included a promise to re-examine Afghan vetting procedures.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services suspended Afghan application processing. A full review of security protocols for evacuees is now underway. This move has sparked immediate debate about immigration policy.

DC Mayor Muriel Bowser commented on the continued military presence. She stated the Guardsmen should be home with their families. The attack highlights ongoing security tensions in the capital.

The use of a Smith & Wesson revolver in this brazen assault has ignited a complex investigation spanning coast to coast. The case continues to develop as authorities piece together the suspect’s motives and connections.

Info at your fingertips

What type of gun was used in the DC shooting?

Authorities confirmed a .357 caliber Smith & Wesson revolver was used. This is a six-chamber repeating handgun. The weapon was recovered at the scene.

Who is the suspect in the National Guard shooting?

The suspect is Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national. He was granted asylum in the U.S. in 2025. He previously worked with U.S.-allied forces in Afghanistan.

What is the condition of the shooting victims?

Both National Guard members are in critical condition. They underwent emergency surgery after being shot multiple times. Their families have been notified and are with them.

Is the FBI investigating this as terrorism?

Yes, FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed it is being investigated as an act of terrorism. Teams are examining the suspect’s background and potential connections. Search warrants have been executed across the country.

How did the suspect get into the United States?

He entered in September 2021 under humanitarian parole during the Afghan evacuation. This was part of the Operation Allies Welcome program. He was later granted asylum after vetting.

What has been the government’s response?

President Trump deployed additional National Guard troops to Washington D.C. Immigration services have paused processing for Afghan applicants. A full review of vetting procedures is ongoing.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, Associated Press, FBI Press Briefings, U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.