A young West Virginia National Guard member remains in critical condition after being ambushed in Washington DC, having tragically volunteered to work on Thanksgiving so her colleagues could spend the holiday with their families.
Thanksgiving Sacrifice Turns Tragic
Sarah Beckstrom, aged 20, was identified as one of two National Guard members critically wounded in a violent attack near the White House. According to US Attorney Jeanine Pirro, Beckstrom suffered gunshot wounds to both her chest and head during the brazen assault.
The heartbreaking detail emerged that Beckstrom had willingly taken Thanksgiving duty to allow other service members to celebrate with their loved ones. US Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized this selfless act, noting that instead of enjoying family time, Beckstrom's family now maintains vigil at her hospital bedside.
Sworn In Less Than 24 Hours Before Attack
In a particularly tragic twist, authorities revealed that both Beckstrom and her fellow guardsman, Andrew Wolfe, 24, had been sworn into the National Guard less than a day before the shooting occurred. Both victims underwent emergency surgery and continue to fight for their lives in critical condition.
The attack unfolded near the Farragut West Metro Station in Northwest DC when Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, allegedly opened fire on the guardsmen. Authorities described the incident as a possible terrorist attack and are investigating at what they call "lightspeed" to determine the motive.
Suspect Background and Investigation
Lakanwal, who came to the United States during the chaotic 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan, had previously served in the Afghan Army in Kandahar where he supported US Special Forces. Authorities confirmed he had no criminal history prior to the attack.
The suspect had applied for asylum in December 2024 and received approval this year. According to officials, Lakanwal lay in wait before ambushing the two guardsmen, then was shot by return fire from other National Guard members at the scene.
US Attorney Jeanine Pirro issued a solemn warning regarding the severity of the charges Lakanwal could face, stating clearly that if either victim dies, the suspect will face murder charges. The investigation continues as authorities work to establish a definitive motive for the attack.
