President Trump Considers Deporting Attacker's Family
President Donald Trump has revealed that his administration is actively considering deporting the family members of the Afghan refugee accused of killing a National Guard soldier in Washington, DC. The shocking development comes after Wednesday's violent attack that left 20-year-old soldier Sarah Beckstrom dead and another guardsman wounded.
"Well, we're looking at that right now," President Trump told reporters on Thursday when questioned about potential deportation actions against the wife and children of 29-year-old terror suspect Rahmanullah Lakanwal. The President described the situation as "a tragic situation" while confirming that his administration is examining the entire family circumstance.
Deadly Ambush Near White House
The violent incident unfolded around 2:15 p.m. on Wednesday just blocks away from the White House. According to authorities, Lakanwal allegedly opened fire on National Guard troops who were patrolling the area.
Beckstrom, who was shot in both the head and chest, was performing her duties alongside 24-year-old guardsman Andrew Wolfe when the attack occurred. Despite being rushed into emergency surgery and listed in critical condition, Beckstrom's prognosis remained grim until she ultimately passed away on Thursday night.
A third guardsman responded to the scene and managed to subdue Lakanwal, who also sustained gunshot wounds during the confrontation. The suspect was transported to the hospital for treatment.
Legal Consequences and Presidential Response
Lakanwal currently faces at least three counts of assault with intent to kill and criminal possession of a weapon, charges that could result in up to 15 years of imprisonment. However, US Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro had previously indicated that first-degree murder charges would be pursued if either of the wounded soldiers succumbed to their injuries.
Attorney General Pam Bondi has confirmed that federal prosecutors will seek the death penalty against Lakanwal following Beckstrom's death.
President Trump made the somber announcement during a Thanksgiving evening call to military units, stating "She's just passed away. She's no longer with us. She's looking down at us right now." The President paid tribute to Beckstrom, calling her an "incredible person, outstanding in every single way."
Lakanwal arrived in the United States in 2021 following the chaotic American withdrawal from Afghanistan. He resettled in Bellingham, Washington, with his wife and at least five children through the Biden-era Operation Allies Welcome program. Records indicate that Lakanwal had previously fought in Afghanistan before his relocation to America.
