National Guard Shooting Suspect Learns Fate After One Member Dies

The man accused of ambushing and shooting two National Guard members in Washington, D.C., the day before Thanksgiving is now facing a first-degree murder charge, U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro announced Friday. The upgraded charge came after officials confirmed that 20-year-old Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom tragically died from her injuries in a D.C. hospital. Pirro emphasized the gravity of the crime and the determination of federal authorities to pursue full accountability.

Suspect Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, now faces murder charges as well as multiple firearm-related offenses, including three counts of possessing a firearm during a crime of violence and two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed. According to investigators, the attack was a deliberate ambush carried out against uniformed National Guard personnel.

Specialist Beckstrom’s father, Gary Beckstrom, shared the heartbreaking news publicly, writing, “My baby girl has passed to glory… this has been a horrible tragedy.” His words underscored the immense loss endured by the Beckstrom family and the deep sorrow now felt across the National Guard community.

Pirro said on “Fox & Friends” that additional charges are likely, making it clear that federal prosecutors intend to pursue the strongest possible case. She noted that Beckstrom had volunteered to work duty over the holiday in service to others—only to be senselessly attacked while protecting the nation’s capital.

Authorities say Lakanwal, an Afghan national, was arrested moments after the ambush near Farragut Square Park, just steps from the White House. Reports indicate he overstayed his visa and was living in the U.S. illegally. He is accused of shooting Beckstrom and Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, who remains in critical condition as doctors fight to save his life.

Both soldiers were members of the West Virginia National Guard, deployed to Washington at President Trump’s request to help secure the city during a period of elevated threats. Their service was part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to restore safety and stability in America’s capital.

Specialist Beckstrom served with the 863rd Military Police Company, 111th Engineer Brigade, and had been deployed in D.C. since August. Friends and fellow soldiers said she was dedicated, disciplined, and deeply committed to her mission and her fellow Guardsmen.

Federal officials confirmed that Lakanwal first arrived in the United States on September 8, 2021, under the Biden administration’s emergency evacuation program following the collapse of Kabul. President Trump emphasized that the suspect’s ability to stay in the country was extended under Biden-era immigration measures, raising renewed scrutiny of the administration’s vetting policies.

During a press exchange, President Trump directly blamed President Biden’s immigration decisions for allowing the suspect into the country. When a reporter questioned why, Trump responded bluntly that the Biden administration had opened the door to thousands of individuals who were not properly screened—warning again that rushed policies carry dangerous consequences.

Following the attack, President Trump issued a statement offering prayers for the wounded Guardsmen and condemning the violence. He reaffirmed his support for the National Guard, law enforcement, and the military, writing, “God bless our Great National Guard… These are truly great people.” His message captured the profound grief shared by many Americans—and his commitment to ensuring tragedies like this never happen again.