UPDATE: An Afghan national has been charged in a shocking attack on two members of the West Virginia National Guard just blocks from the White House. The incident unfolded on Wednesday afternoon, leaving both soldiers hospitalized in critical condition, according to officials from the FBI and Washington’s mayor.
The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, aged 29, was immediately apprehended at the scene and suffered non-life-threatening injuries. He is among approximately 76,000 Afghan refugees brought to the U.S. through Operation Allies Welcome following the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro confirmed the identities of the injured National Guard members as Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, during a press briefing earlier today.
Officials state that Lakanwal worked with the CIA while in Afghanistan, and his actions have raised significant concerns about the vetting process for Afghan refugees. Critics have previously expressed doubts about the resettlement program’s planning and execution, especially in light of this violent incident. Lakanwal’s attack has ignited a fierce debate about national security and the challenges of integrating refugees into American society.
The shooting occurred as the National Guard members were deployed to Washington for a routine mission. Eyewitnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots, sending shockwaves through the capital and prompting a rapid response from law enforcement.
The FBI is continuing its investigation, and authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward. As this situation develops, the community is rallying to support the injured soldiers, with many expressing their outrage and disbelief over the brazen attack in a normally secure area.
What happens next is critical as the FBI processes the evidence and reviews the circumstances surrounding this violent act. Officials have assured the public that they are committed to ensuring the safety of all service members deployed in the area.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story, as authorities continue to work around the clock to uncover the full details of this alarming incident.
