One killed, another critically wounded in targeted attack near the White House; suspect previously served in U.S.-backed Afghan special forces
Sadia J. Choudhury Nov 26, 2025
On Wednesday afternoon, around 2:15 p.m., two members of the West Virginia National Guard were shot near the Farragut West Metro station, just blocks from the White House.
Authorities identified the shooter as 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal. One soldier, 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom, died from her injuries, while the other, Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe (24), remains in critical condition.
Officials have described the incident as a “targeted attack.” Lakanwal was wounded during a return exchange of fire and is currently hospitalized in custody.
About Rahmanullah Lakanwal:
• Lakanwal arrived in the U.S. in September 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome, a program relocating Afghans who worked with U.S. forces.
• He was granted asylum in April 2025.
• He previously served in an elite Afghan paramilitary unit known as the “Zero Unit” under U.S. oversight.
• After arriving in the U.S., he and his family settled in Bellingham, Washington.
Authorities report that Lakanwal drove across the country to carry out the attack in Washington, D.C.
Charges and Government Response:
• On November 28, following Specialist Beckstrom’s death, charges against Lakanwal were upgraded to first-degree murder.
• He also faces charges of armed assault with intent to kill and weapons violations.
• The incident has prompted a nationwide review of security and immigration policies; U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has suspended visas and asylum processing for Afghan nationals.
• The administration deployed additional security in D.C. and announced a stricter review of refugee and asylum procedures.
Background and Community Concerns:
Those who knew Lakanwal described him as struggling to adjust to life in the U.S. He reportedly spent long periods isolated, was unable to maintain steady employment, and occasionally took cross-country trips without notice. Community advocates raised concerns about his mental health and well-being in 2023 and 2024.
Emails indicate that Lakanwal displayed signs of distress — often not communicating with family, neglecting his children, and exhibiting erratic behavior. Despite these warning signs, his asylum application was approved.
Significance and Analysis:
• The attack has reignited debates over U.S. refugee resettlement policies, immigration procedures, and national security.
• Critics argue it exposes weaknesses in vetting and security checks.
• Supporters of resettlement policies note that Lakanwal had been thoroughly vetted by intelligence and defense agencies.
• The administration’s swift actions — suspending visas and enhancing security — aim to prevent potential copycat incidents.
Conclusion:
The shooting near the White House, resulting in the death of one National Guard member and critical injury to another — carried out by Afghan asylee Rahmanullah Lakanwal — underscores the delicate balance between humanitarian responsibility and national security.
As legal proceedings continue, the incident may have lasting implications for U.S. asylum policies, refugee vetting, and the management of resettlement programs.
