US President Donald Trump has personally met with the family of a National Guardsman who was critically injured in a shooting near the White House. The incident also claimed the life of a fellow guardsman, leading to a major investigation and a swift policy response from the administration.
Oval Office Meeting and Prayers for Recovery
President Trump hosted the family of Andrew Wolfe in the Oval Office, sharing a picture of the meeting on his Truth Social platform. Wolfe, a National Guardsman, was seriously wounded while on duty protecting the US Capitol. In his post, Trump praised Wolfe and his relatives, calling them "fantastic American Patriots." He noted that the 24-year-old soldier is currently in the process of healing, with his parents, brother, and friends offering their prayers.
Providing an update on Wolfe's medical condition, Attorney General Pam Bondi described his progress as a "miracle." She revealed that Wolfe is now able to open both eyes and urged the public to continue praying for his full recovery. Earlier, West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey had stated that Wolfe, who responded to medical staff by giving a thumbs up and wiggling his toes, remains in serious condition. "Andrew is still fighting for his life," Morrisey emphasized, adding that he needs prayers.
Tragic Loss and the Alleged Shooter
The shooting had a fatal outcome for the other West Virginia National Guard member involved, 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom. Beckstrom, who had enlisted in 2023 and was deployed to Washington since August, tragically died from her injuries. Both she and Wolfe were part of a deployment ordered by President Trump to assist with crime-fighting efforts in the capital.
Authorities have identified the alleged shooter as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national. Investigators report that Lakanwal was radicalized after moving to the United States in 2021. He had previously been part of a CIA-backed unit in Afghanistan and was granted asylum during Trump's presidency. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed the radicalization timeline.
The suspect is accused of driving across the country from Washington State and opening fire on the two Guardsmen with a .357 Magnum revolver. He was wounded during the incident and remains hospitalized. Lakanwal now faces serious charges, including first-degree murder and assault. A court date for his case has not yet been scheduled as the investigation into his motive continues.
Policy Response and Investigation Continues
In the wake of this violent attack, the Trump administration announced immediate immigration policy changes. President Trump declared a halt to migration from what he referred to as "Third World countries" and specifically suspended the processing of visas for Afghan nationals. This move is part of a broader tightening of immigration rules, which also includes restrictions on work permits for migrants.
As the nation reacts to the tragedy, the focus remains on the recovery of Andrew Wolfe and justice for Sarah Beckstrom. The investigation led by authorities is ongoing, with efforts concentrated on uncovering the full motive behind Rahmanullah Lakanwal's alleged actions.
