One of the National Guard members who was a target of an attack in Washington DC has sadly passed away, as confirmed by officials. President Trump announced the death of Sarah Beckstrom, a 20-year-old female member, who succumbed to her injuries. She was identified earlier as Sarah Beckstrom. Meanwhile, the second National Guard member, Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains in critical condition. President Trump shared the news of Sarah’s passing during a Thanksgiving call with US service members on the evening of November 27.
According to President Trump, Sarah Beckstrom from West Virginia was a highly respected and magnificent individual who was brutally attacked and has sadly passed away. Her father, Gary Beckstrom, expressed the heartbreaking situation as he mentioned her mortal wound and the impossibility of recovery while holding her hand.
Governor Patrick Morrisey praised Sarah’s courage and dedication to serving her state and country. He highlighted her bravery and selflessness in answering the call to serve, emphasizing her commitment and character as exemplary of the West Virginia National Guard’s best qualities.
The tragic incident involved a suspected shooter identified as Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal. The FBI is currently investigating the event as a potential act of terror. Reports indicate that Lakanwal allegedly ambushed the guards near the Farragut West Metro Station in Northwest DC, shooting Sarah in the chest and head before being subdued by law enforcement after a brief exchange of gunfire.
In the aftermath, both guards were initially reported as deceased by Governor Morrisey, but later clarification revealed conflicting reports on their conditions. The guards were rushed to separate hospitals and are currently in critical condition. President Trump extended his support to the affected families and criticized the immigration policies under Joe Biden’s administration, labeling them as detrimental to national security.
Law enforcement sources indicated that the suspect, who was taken into custody, sustained non-life-threatening injuries after being shot during the incident. President Trump vowed severe consequences for the suspected shooter and halted immigration requests concerning Afghan nationals indefinitely for security reassessment.
While condemning the attack, an Afghan advocacy group emphasized that the incident should not be used to unfairly target or harm Afghans resettling in America. The community urged for unity and understanding in the wake of the tragic event.