National Guard member dies after shooting in Washington DC

November 28, 2025

Two National Guard members patrolling downtown Washington DC were shot at close range near Farragut Square on Wednesday, resulting in the death of 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom and leaving 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe critically injured. The shooter, 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal from Afghanistan, was arrested at the scene after being shot four times by responding officers. Lakanwal had previously assisted US forces during the 2021 Afghanistan evacuation and came to America through a special immigration program before receiving asylum earlier this year.

Who is affected

Sarah Beckstrom (deceased National Guard member)
Andrew Wolfe (critically injured National Guard member)
Sarah Beckstrom's parents and family members
Rahmanullah Lakanwal (arrested suspect)
Afghan immigrants seeking to come to the US
Individuals from 19 countries who received green cards (including Afghanistan, Cuba, Haiti, Iran, Somalia, and Venezuela)
More than 2,000 National Guard troops deployed in Washington DC
The 863rd Military Police Company, 111th Engineer Brigade of the West Virginia Army National Guard

What action is being taken

Andrew Wolfe is fighting for his life in medical treatment
Police are holding Rahmanullah Lakanwal in custody after shooting him four times
The Trump administration is suspending processing of all immigration requests from Afghans
Officials are re-examining green cards issued to individuals from 19 countries
Federal prosecutors are pursuing charges including assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence
The Attorney General's office is seeking the death penalty against the suspect

Why it matters

This incident represents a significant national security concern as it involved an attack on US military personnel deployed domestically to address urban crime. The shooter's background as someone who assisted US forces in Afghanistan and entered through a special immigration program designed to protect Afghan allies raises questions about vetting processes for refugees and asylum seekers. The attack has become a catalyst for major immigration policy changes affecting multiple countries and potentially altering how the US handles admissions from nations it considers security risks. Additionally, it highlights the risks faced by National Guard troops deployed in domestic law enforcement roles, where they patrol but lack arrest powers.

What's next

Andrew Wolfe continues fighting for his life with ongoing medical treatment
Prosecutors may upgrade charges to first-degree murder if Wolfe does not survive
Federal prosecutors will proceed with seeking the death penalty against Rahmanullah Lakanwal
The Trump administration plans to "permanently pause migration" from "third world countries" (details not yet provided)
Officials will continue re-examining green cards from the 19 countries on the review list

Read full article from source: BBC