Washington National Guard Ambush: Tragedy Strikes Near White House
A chilling new photograph and video have surfaced showing the terrifying moment when an Afghan national ambushed two National Guard members just steps from the White House in Washington. The attack, which occurred on November 26, resulted in the death of Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and critical injuries to Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe.
The visual evidence, obtained by the Wall Street Journal from smartphone footage, provides the first known visuals of suspect Rahmanullah Lakanwal (29) running behind the guardsmen before opening fire. Both victims had been sworn into service less than 24 hours before the tragic incident.
Details of the Fatal Attack
The ambush-style shooting took place near Farragut Square Metro Station, where Lakanwal allegedly opened fire without provocation using a .357 Smith and Wesson revolver. The viral video shows National Guard members returning fire while seeking cover moments after being ambushed.
Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, aged 20, and Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, aged 24, both underwent emergency surgery following the shooting. Tragically, the West Virginia Guard confirmed that Beckstrom succumbed to her injuries at MedStar Washington Hospital on November 27.
According to official statements, Lakanwal entered the United States in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome, the program designed to evacuate and resettle Afghan allies following the Taliban takeover.
Charges Upgraded to First-Degree Murder
US Attorney Jeanine Pirro announced during an appearance on Fox & Friends that charges against Rahmanullah Lakanwal have been upgraded to include one count of first-degree murder. The initial assault charges have been elevated following Beckstrom's death.
"She volunteered, and she ended up being shot, ambush style, on the cold streets of Washington DC, by an individual who will now be charged with murder in the first degree," Pirro stated. "There are certainly many more charges to come, but we are upgrading the initial charges of assault to murder in the first degree."
The investigation continues as authorities examine the motive behind the attack and whether Lakanwal acted alone. The incident has raised security concerns in the capital, particularly regarding protection measures for military personnel stationed in high-profile areas.
Both National Guard members were serving their country when the unprovoked attack occurred, highlighting the risks faced by military personnel even during domestic deployments. The military community mourns the loss of Specialist Beckstrom while praying for Staff Sergeant Wolfe's full recovery.
