National Guardsman Andrew Wolfe critically injured in shooting incident in Washington, D.C.
A shooting incident in Washington, D.C., has left one National Guardsman critically injured and another fatally wounded. Andrew Wolfe, a 24-year-old Air Force staff sergeant from West Virginia, remains hospitalized in “very serious” condition, three days following the ambush-style attack that took place on November 26, 2025. The attack also claimed the life of his fellow guardsman, 20-year-old Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, who was pronounced dead on November 28.
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey conveyed the urgency of the situation during an appearance on a national news program, emphasizing the need for prayers for Wolfe and his family, who are deeply invested in the outcome of his treatment. He highlighted Wolfe’s legacy of service within a family dedicated to local and military duties, further illustrating the impact of this tragedy on the community.
In discussions about the attack, Congressman Riley Moore, representing West Virginia, shed light on Wolfe’s background. Wolfe’s father serves as a deputy sheriff in Berkeley County, and Wolfe had aspired to follow in those footsteps. Reports indicate that Wolfe has undergone at least one surgical procedure since the incident occurred but remains in critical condition.
The gunman has been identified as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national who entered the United States in September 2021 under a program designed to assist Afghan allies post-U.S. operations in Afghanistan. Following the shooting, Lakanwal was shot by another National Guardsman on the scene. Initially facing charges of assault and criminal possession of a weapon, Lakanwal’s charges have escalated to first-degree murder following Beckstrom’s death.
This tragic event has raised concerns about safety measures for military personnel and the investigations into Lakanwal’s background. Attorney General Pam Bondi has expressed commitment to seeking the death penalty against him. Meanwhile, the motive behind the shooting remains under investigation, and further details about Lakanwal’s past and actions leading up to the shooting are being scrutinized.
In light of these developments, public officials have taken the opportunity to address broader issues surrounding violence and security, including the recent halting of asylum decisions by the Trump administration, which has been linked to this case. The community continues to grapple with the aftermath of this horrific attack as it seeks justice and healing.
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