Shockwaves hit Washington DC after two National Guard troops were shot in a brutal ambush just a mile from the White House. One soldier’s family fears the worst as tragedy unfolds.
Tragic Fate of New National Guards
Just one day after joining the Guard, 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe and 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom were gunned down near Farragut Metro station. Their service had barely begun.
Sarah’s father, Gary Beckstrom, tearfully told The New york/" title="York" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">York Times: “I’m holding her hand right now. She has a mortal wound. It’s not going to be a recovery.” The family is devastated.
Afghan Asylum Seeker with CIA Past Behind Attack
29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the suspect, was shot during the incident but is expected to survive. The FBI has released his mugshot amid heavy public scrutiny.
Lakanwal once served in a CIA-backed Afghan Army unit and worked alongside US Special Forces. He was granted asylum in the US following the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal in 2021.
Prosecutors say he launched a cold-blooded “ambush-style” attack using a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver. He now faces assault with intent to kill and firearm charges – with murder on the table if the soldiers don’t pull through.
Trump Brands Attack ‘Monstrous’ from Florida Golf Course
From his West Palm Beach golf course, former President Donald Trump blasted the shooting as a failure of national security under his watch.
“This attack underscores the single greatest national security threat facing our nation. I am determined to ensure the animal who perpetrated this atrocity will pay the steepest possible price.”
Trump slammed the fact that the Afghan migrant was allowed into the US under his administration.
Raw Footage Shows Shock and Heroism
Disturbing videos capture the suspect firing shots before being wrestled to the ground by soldiers and Secret Service agents. Witnesses reported hearing six rapid gunshots.
The soldiers were rushed to hospital in critical condition. Early rumours of their deaths were swiftly denied by officials.
Meet Rahmanullah Lakanwal
- 29-year-old Afghan asylum seeker granted US entry in April 2025.
- Former CIA-backed Afghan Army operative with close ties to US Special Forces.
- Married with five children, reportedly wounded while supporting US troops in Afghanistan.
What’s Next in the Investigation?
Authorities are scouring CCTV to piece together the attack. Police say this appears to be a lone-wolf strike, with no other suspects identified.
The motive remains unclear, leaving the nation shaken. Prayers pour in for the swift recovery of these brave National Guard members targeted just steps from America’s seat of power.
