An Afghan national has been identified as the suspect in an ambush-style shooting near the White House that critically injured two members of the West Virginia National Guard. Officials confirmed that Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, 24, remain hospitalized in critical condition.
The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, entered the United States in 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome after serving in a CIA-backed Afghan Army unit. Authorities said he drove from Washington state to carry out the attack, using a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver.
The incident occurred on November 26, 2025, just two blocks from the White House. Lakanwal was shot by another Guard member and taken into custody. He is currently hospitalized as charges mount against him.
The FBI has raided properties in Washington state and San Diego, seizing electronic devices and interviewing relatives as part of a terrorism probe. Investigators are reviewing video evidence that shows the suspect suddenly opening fire on the troops.
President Donald Trump condemned the attack as a “monstrous ambush-style assault” and vowed that the suspect would face the steepest possible price. Officials noted that the case has reignited debate over vetting procedures for Afghan evacuees resettled in the United States.
