WASHINGTON, D.C. — A targeted shooting near the White House has left one West Virginia National Guard member dead and another critically injured.
Officials confirmed Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, 20, of Webster Springs, was killed in the attack Wednesday afternoon. Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, of Martinsburg, remains hospitalized in critical condition after undergoing surgery.
The incident occurred around 2:15 p.m. near 17th and I Streets NW, where Beckstrom and Wolfe were conducting a high-visibility patrol as part of the “D.C. Safe and Beautiful Mission.” Authorities identified the suspect as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, an Afghan national who previously worked with a CIA-backed unit before resettling in the U.S. He was shot by another Guard member during the ambush and is in custody.
Statements from Leaders
- Governor Patrick Morrisey: “Spc. Beckstrom embodied the courage and character of West Virginia. She stepped forward to serve and made the ultimate sacrifice. Our prayers remain with Sgt. Wolfe and his family as he fights for his life.”
- Senator Shelley Moore Capito: “This tragedy is a stark reminder of the risks our Guard members face even here at home. West Virginians mourn alongside the Beckstrom family and stand in solidarity with Sgt. Wolfe.”
- Senator Joe Manchin: “The National Guard is the backbone of our communities. Sarah’s service and sacrifice will never be forgotten, and we will continue to support Andrew and his loved ones during this difficult time.”
Current Status
Federal investigators are probing the suspect’s background and possible motives, treating the shooting as a targeted attack. President Donald Trump acknowledged Beckstrom’s death during a Thanksgiving Day call to service members, noting Wolfe is “fighting for his life.”
