Washington Shooting Suspect Identified as Afghan National Who Aided US Troops

Two US National Guard members were shot and critically injured near the White House. The suspect is an Afghan national who previously worked alongside American forces. The incident occurred Wednesday afternoon just blocks from the executive mansion.Authorities have identified the assailant as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal. According to the Associated Press, the suspect entered the United States in 2021 through a Biden administration evacuation program.

Details of the Washington Shooting Unfold

The shooting happened near a metro station northwest of the White House. Jeffrey Carroll, an executive assistant DC police chief, described the attack. He said the suspect “came around the corner” and immediately began firing.Video evidence reviewed by investigators confirmed this sequence of events. Other troops in the area quickly responded to the gunfire. They ran over and subdued the suspect after he was shot during the confrontation.Lakanwal sustained injuries from the incident. A law enforcement official stated these injuries are not believed to be life-threatening. The two wounded West Virginia National Guard members remain in critical condition.

Background of the Suspect Revealed

Rahmanullah Lakanwal was living in Washington state prior to the attack. Authorities are still investigating his personal background and history. His motive for the shooting remains unknown at this time.A close relative provided details on Lakanwal’s past. The relative told NBC that Lakanwal served alongside US Special Forces in Afghanistan. He reportedly served in the Afghan army for a decade, including time at a Kandahar base.The suspect came to the US through Operation Allies Welcome. This program evacuated roughly 76,000 Afghans after the US withdrawal. Many were interpreters and translators who had assisted US troops and diplomats.

Political Reactions and Program Scrutiny

Former President Donald Trump swiftly commented on the incident. He described the shooting as an “act of terror” during a White House address. Trump criticized the evacuation flights that brought the suspect to America.The Biden administration’s program has faced previous criticism. Congressional Republicans and government watchdogs have highlighted vetting lapses. They have questioned the speed of the admissions process following the Afghanistan withdrawal.Supporters of the initiative argue it provided a crucial lifeline. They note it protected Afghans at high risk of Taliban reprisals for their US affiliation. The program was designed to assist those who had supported the American mission.

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The investigation into the Washington shooting continues as authorities work to piece together the suspect’s actions and motivations in this critical security incident.

Info at your fingertips

Who is the suspect in the Washington shooting?

The suspect is identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national. He entered the US in 2021 through a special evacuation program. Authorities say he previously worked with US troops in Afghanistan.

What was the suspect’s background with US forces?

A relative stated Lakanwal served alongside US Special Forces in Afghanistan. He had a decade of service in the Afghan army. He was stationed at a base in Kandahar during part of his service.

How did the shooting unfold?

Police officials say the suspect came around a corner and immediately opened fire. The attack targeted two National Guard members on duty. Other troops in the area quickly subdued the shooter.

What is Operation Allies Welcome?

It was a Biden administration program to evacuate and resettle Afghan allies. The effort brought approximately 76,000 people to the United States. Many were interpreters and translators who aided the US mission.

What is the condition of the shooting victims?

The two West Virginia National Guard members sustained critical injuries. They were deployed to Washington, DC, for their duties. Their current medical status remains serious.

How have politicians reacted to the incident?

Former President Trump labeled the shooting an “act of terror.” He criticized the evacuation program that brought the suspect to the US. The program has been a point of political contention since its inception.