Sarah Beckstrom, a 20-year-old specialist with the West Virginia National Guard, has died following a shooting Wednesday near the White House. Her fellow service member, Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains in critical condition and is “fighting for his life,” according to officials. ABC News+2The Washington Post+2
What Happened: Ambush-Style Attack Near White House
The two Guardsmen were on patrol near 17th and I Streets NW — part of a federally directed deployment intended to assist local law enforcement. The Washington Post+1
According to prosecutors, a lone gunman, identified as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal — an Afghan national — opened fire on them with a .357-caliber revolver. After the initial shots, he leaned over and fired again, striking one of the soldiers multiple times. Guardsmen subdued the attacker. The Washington Post+2NBC4 Washington+2
Both were rushed to a hospital and underwent surgery. Beckstrom succumbed to her injuries; Wolfe remains under intensive care. WJCT News 89.9+2CBS News+2
Remembering Sarah Beckstrom — A “Highly Respected” Guard Member
President Donald Trump, speaking during a Thanksgiving-day call with military personnel, said Beckstrom “started service in June of 2023… a magnificent person, outstanding in every way” and mourned her passing. Fox News+2ABC News+2
Her colleagues and superiors echoed the sentiment. Her death has been described as a profound loss to the “One Guard Family” — a loss felt deeply across her home state and the entire Guard community. CBS News+2NBC4 Washington+2
In remarks from officials, she was honored as a young soldier who volunteered to serve in the nation’s capital, putting duty above all. NBC New York+2KPBS Public Media+2
Legal Fallout — Suspect Charged, Investigation Underway
The accused shooter, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, faces multiple charges including assault with intent to kill while armed and illegal firearm possession. Prosecutors have indicated they may escalate to first-degree murder if Wolfe does not survive. The Washington Post+2Reuters+2
Federal authorities are treating the incident as a potential act of terrorism, noting the suspect had been resettled in the U.S. under a post-Afghanistan-withdrawal asylum program. Reuters+2Wikipedia+2
The tragedy has also triggered a broader political reaction: the administration has ordered a sweeping review of Afghan resettlement and asylum cases processed in recent years. The Guardian+2Reuters+2
In West Virginia and the wider Guard community, grief and shock have spread rapidly. Leaders called for prayers and reflection, honoring Beckstrom’s sacrifice and expressing hope for Wolfe’s recovery. CBS News+2WJCT News 89.9+2
As the legal process unfolds and federal agencies investigate potential motives and background factors for Lakanwal, many Americans are grappling with questions about domestic security, immigration policy, and the role of uniformed service members in domestic policing efforts.
This is a developing story; more updates are expected as investigators, prosecutors, and Guard leadership release further information.