Tragic Shooting Claims Life of National Guard Member in D.C.
A National Guard member from West Virginia was tragically killed and another injured in a shooting incident in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday. The event has prompted significant concern, particularly regarding the suspect involved, who is an Afghan national allegedly connected to the mass parole initiatives of the previous administration.
Why It Matters
The shooting raises serious questions about vetting processes for immigrants, particularly those involved in military or public safety roles. As the nation grapples with the implications of policies that allow for rapid entry into the country, this incident underscores potential risks to public safety and national security.
Key Developments
- The victims of the shooting on November 26, 2025, have been identified as 20-year-old Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and 24-year-old Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe.
- Beckstrom has been reported deceased, while Wolfe remains hospitalized in serious condition.
- The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, is an Afghan national allegedly unvetted during his entry to the U.S. under Operation Allies Welcome in September 2021.
- Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and former President Donald Trump have both commented on the shooting, highlighting the implications of the suspect’s immigration status.
Full Report
Incident Overview
At approximately 2:15 p.m. on November 26, members of the National Guard were shot near the Farragut Square Metro Station. Both Beckstrom and Wolfe were serving in the West Virginia National Guard, with Beckstrom assigned to the 863rd Military Police Company and Wolfe to the 167th Airlift Wing.
In a heartfelt message posted on Facebook, Beckstrom’s father conveyed profound grief over the loss of his daughter, emphasizing the tragedy of the situation while requesting privacy for the family.
Suspect Information
The individual suspected of the shooting, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, had been part of mass paroled entries into the United States during the Biden Administration. Secretary Noem and Trump pointed to his Afghan nationality as a factor requiring scrutiny regarding vetting protocols in immigration policies.
Reactions and Statements
Former President Trump described Lakanwal as a "monster," citing the serious nature of Wolfe’s injuries and expressing sorrow over the death of Beckstrom. Family members of Wolfe have called for prayers, emphasizing the critical state he finds himself in following the shooting.
Context & Previous Events
The incident highlights concerns surrounding the Operation Allies Welcome initiative, which allowed thousands of Afghan nationals to enter the U.S. following the Taliban’s resurgence in 2021. The fast-track entry process has faced criticism for potentially bypassing thorough vetting procedures, raising alarms about the safety of Americans and military personnel.
As the investigation continues, authorities search for further details on the shooting and the background of the suspect involved.
