National Guard shooting suspect charged with murder

December 2, 2025

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan refugee who previously worked with the CIA and arrived in the United States in 2021, has been formally charged with first-degree murder and assault with intent to kill after allegedly shooting two National Guard soldiers in Washington DC. The attack resulted in the death of 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom and left 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe critically wounded, both of whom were West Virginia Guard members on patrol near the White House. Prosecutors presented evidence that Lakanwal shouted "Allahu Akbar" during the shooting before being wounded and subdued by Guard members and Secret Service officers.

Who is affected

Sarah Beckstrom (20-year-old National Guard member who died from gunshot wounds)
Andrew Wolfe (24-year-old National Guard member critically injured and hospitalized)
Rahmanullah Lakanwal (the accused shooter, wounded and facing murder charges)
Lakanwal's wife and five children in Bellingham, Washington
Other National Guard members present during the shooting
Afghan refugees in the United States (subject to review)
People with pending asylum decisions (now paused)

What action is being taken

Prosecutors have officially filed murder charges (first-degree murder and assault with intent to kill) against Lakanwal
Lakanwal is being held without bond
Andrew Wolfe remains in hospital receiving medical treatment
The Trump administration is conducting a review of Afghan refugees in the US
The Trump administration has paused all asylum decisions

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of refugee resettlement, particularly concerning individuals who worked with US forces abroad and may experience trauma or mental health issues after relocation. The attack resulted in the death of a service member and critical injury to another while they were performing routine duties in the nation's capital, raising security concerns about protecting military personnel on domestic assignments. The shooting has prompted significant policy responses affecting all asylum seekers and Afghan refugees in the United States, potentially impacting thousands of people seeking protection. The case also underscores the importance of mental health support for refugees, as social workers had previously identified concerns about Lakanwal's deteriorating mental state and isolation.

What's next

Andrew Wolfe continues fighting to survive and receiving medical treatment
Legal proceedings will continue against Lakanwal following his not guilty plea
The Trump administration's review of Afghan refugees in the US is ongoing
Asylum decisions remain paused pending further action

Read full article from source: BBC