Heroic Act Prevents Further Tragedy Near White House
A routine patrol near the White House turned into a scene of horror and heroism on Wednesday, November 26, when a National Guard major, armed with nothing but a pocket knife, successfully subdued a gunman who had opened fire on two fellow guardsmen.
The Attack Unfolds
The incident occurred just blocks from the White House, near the Farragut West Metro entrance at 17th and I Streets NW, around 2 p.m.. The alleged attacker, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan man from Bellingham, Washington, had reportedly driven nearly 3,000 miles across the country before launching his assault.
Investigators state that Lakanwal pulled out a .357 Magnum Smith & Wesson revolver and fired at two National Guard troops on patrol. Sarah Beckstrom, 20, of the West Virginia National Guard, was struck in the head and chest. Her father revealed to The New York Times that his daughter is tragically "not expected to survive her wounds."
The other guardsman, Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, was also critically injured after Lakanwal allegedly picked up Beckstrom’s weapon and continued firing.
A Major's Fearless Response
A National Guard major conducting routine rounds nearby heard the gunshots. According to sources, the major was unarmed, carrying only a pocket knife. Seeing his moment when Lakanwal attempted to reload his weapon, the major sprang into action.
"He jumped from cover and stabbed the attacker in the head multiple times," said Mike Davis, a conservative lawyer and strategist, citing law enforcement sources. This quick and decisive action brought Lakanwal to the ground.
Backup Arrives and Suspect Restrained
Following the major's brave intervention, a fourth National Guardsman rushed to the scene with a drawn pistol and shot Lakanwal in the buttocks and leg, according to initial reports. Both guardsmen then worked together to restrain the suspect until police arrived and took him into custody.
Charges and Unclear Motive
Rahmanullah Lakanwal has been charged with possession of a firearm during a crime of violence and intent to kill while armed. Authorities confirm that his motive remains under investigation.
Officials verified that Lakanwal previously served in US-backed paramilitary operations in Afghanistan. The CIA confirmed that his work with the US government ended after the 2021 withdrawal. He arrived in the US through President Biden’s Operation Allies Welcome, a program that resettled roughly 76,000 Afghan partners. He had been living in Bellingham, Washington, with his wife and five children.
Investigators currently believe that Lakanwal acted alone in carrying out the attack.
