White House National Guard Attack Suspect Struggled with Severe Mental Health Crisis

An Afghan national has been charged with murder after a shooting that killed one National Guard member and critically wounded another near the White House. The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, was in the United States through a special refugee program. The attack occurred on the eve of Thanksgiving, sending shockwaves through the nation’s capital.According to The Associated Press, Lakanwal’s behavior had become increasingly erratic long before the attack. Emails reveal a community advocate had raised urgent concerns about his mental state, fearing he was suicidal and unable to function as a provider for his wife and five young sons.

Mounting Warnings Preceded Capital Violence

Lakanwal resettled in Bellingham, Washington, in 2021. He struggled profoundly to adapt to his new life. A community member detailed his severe decline in emails to a refugee organization.He quit his job in March 2023. His behavior then shifted dramatically between dark isolation and reckless, cross-country drives. He would spend weeks in a darkened room, not speaking to his family. This was followed by manic episodes where he would drive nonstop to cities like Chicago and Arizona.

Failed Interventions and a Cross-Country Journey

The U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants attempted to intervene. They visited Bellingham in March 2024 after receiving the emailed warnings. It appears Lakanwal refused their assistance.He later embarked on his final cross-country drive from Washington to the District of Columbia. The motive for the attack is under active investigation by federal authorities. Officials have stated they believe he was radicalized after his arrival in the United States.The tragedy highlights the complex challenges faced by some refugees. It also underscores the potential consequences when severe mental health crises go unaddressed. The two National Guard members were simply performing their duty when they were targeted.

Sabrina Carpenter Tour Concludes After 14-Month Global Run

The National Guard attack near the White House has prompted a thorough review of support systems for at-risk individuals. The investigation continues to uncover the full sequence of events that led to this devastating outcome.

Thought you’d like to know

Who was killed in the National Guard attack?

Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, of the West Virginia National Guard was killed. Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, was critically wounded in the shooting incident.

What was the suspect’s background?

Rahmanullah Lakanwal is an Afghan national who entered the U.S. in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome. He previously worked with a CIA-backed Afghan Army unit.

Where did the suspect live in the United States?

Lakanwal was resettled with his family in Bellingham, Washington. It was from there that he drove to Washington, D.C., before the attack.

Were there warning signs before the attack?

Yes. A community advocate sent emails warning a refugee organization that Lakanwal was dysfunctional, isolated, and potentially suicidal. These warnings were issued months before the violence.

What is Operation Allies Welcome?

It is a U.S. program that evacuated and resettled tens of thousands of Afghans after the American withdrawal from Afghanistan. Many had worked alongside U.S. forces.