Fatal Shooting Near White House — Charges Upgraded
Authorities announced that the suspect alleged to have opened fire on two National Guard members in Washington, D.C., will face first-degree murder charges, following the death of 20-year-old Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom. The attack occurred on 26 November 2025; Beckstrom died the next day. The other victim, 24-year-old Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, remains in critical condition.
Initially charged with assault and weapons offenses, the suspect — identified as 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal — now faces a much more severe charge following the death. U.S. prosecutors said additional charges are expected as the investigation continues.
Ambush Style Attack: What Happened
- Witnesses and officials described the shooting as an ambush-style, unprovoked attack. Lakanwal allegedly opened fire with a revolver near a metro station, striking the guardsmen — then reloading and firing again at one before targeting the other.
- According to prosecutors, the attack appeared planned. Lakanwal reportedly drove cross-country from his home in Washington state to carry out the assault near the U.S. capital.
Aftermath: Legal, Security and Political Fallout
The deadly shooting has triggered a broader security and political response:
- The attack is being treated as a pre-meditated act, and investigators are exploring whether it was motivated by ideological or terrorist intent.
- In wake of the incident, immigration and asylum policies faced renewed scrutiny — especially concerning resettled individuals from conflict zones. Government officials have signaled tougher vetting and enforcement measures.
What’s Next: Trial and Investigation
With the murder charge now in place, prosecutors say they will soon file additional charges. The case is expected to involve a full criminal and possibly terrorism probe. The surviving guard member remains hospitalized, and authorities have launched a nationwide investigation — including review of the suspect’s background, travel history, and digital footprint.
