Tragedy Strikes Near White House: National Guard Member Sarah Beckstrom Killed in Shooting
Young Guard Sarah Beckstrom Dies After Targeted Attack
Shock gripped the capital as 20-year-old National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom was shot dead near the White House. President Donald Trump confirmed her death on Thursday, calling it a heartbreaking loss. “She’s just passed away. She’s no longer with us,” Trump said in his first live remarks since the attack.
Beckstrom’s father, Gary, had earlier given a grim update: “I’m holding her hand right now. She has a mortal wound. It’s not going to be a recovery.”
Fellow Guard Still Fighting for Life
The other guard caught in the attack, 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe, remains in critical condition in hospital. Both Beckstrom and Wolfe served in the West Virginia National Guard and were part of Trump’s security mission in Washington DC.
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey paid tribute, saying, “She served with courage, extraordinary resolve, and an unwavering sense of duty. She answered the call to serve with the strength and character that define the very best of our National Guard.”
Gunman Tied to Afghanistan and Terror Under FBI Lens
Authorities have named the shooter as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan who came to the US under a special visa for those working with American forces. Lakanwal was granted asylum in April during the Trump administration and had confirmed CIA-linked military ties.
The FBI is treating the shooting as a possible terror attack. According to US Attorney Jeanine Pirro, Lakanwal made a cross-country trip armed with a .357 revolver and launched an “ambush-style” assault. Pirro warned the shooter could face first-degree murder charges if Wolfe does not survive. Investigators believe Lakanwal acted alone and with deadly intent.
Trump Demands Crackdown on Afghan Immigrants After Shooting
The tragedy sparked sharp criticism from Trump, who slammed the Biden administration for “failing to properly vet migrants from Afghanistan.” He demanded a full review of every Afghan admitted under Biden.
“We must re-examine every single alien who has entered from Afghanistan under Biden,” Trump said. “If they can’t love our country, we don’t want them.”
In response, federal agencies have paused Afghan immigration processing and toughened asylum reviews. The vetting of Afghan refugees remains a hot political flashpoint.
Trump also vowed to send 500 more National Guard troops to boost security in Washington DC, despite a federal judge ordering an end to the current deployment.
