Two members of the United States National Guard are fighting for their lives after being shot in what President Donald Trump described as a "monstrous ambush-style attack" just steps from the White House. The incident occurred on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, sending shockwaves through the nation's capital.
The suspected shooter, identified by authorities on Thursday as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, was swiftly taken into custody. The two victims, Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, remain in critical condition following the targeted assault.
Who is the Suspect in the National Guard Shooting?
U.S. attorney for D.C. Jeanine Pirro revealed at a Thursday news conference that Lakanwal is an Afghan national who came to the United States in 2021 under President Biden's Operation Allies Welcome. This program was established following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.
According to officials, Lakanwal had been living in Bellingham, Washington, with his wife and children. A significant detail emerged from CIA Director John Ratcliffe, who told Fox News Digital that the suspect had previously been a Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) partner in Afghanistan.
Ratcliffe stated that the Biden administration justified bringing Lakanwal to the U.S. due to his prior work with the U.S. government as a member of a partner force in Kandahar. FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed at the news conference that authorities were aware the suspect "had a relationship in Afghanistan with partner forces." Patel described the case as an "ongoing investigation of terrorism."
How the Washington D.C. Ambush Unfolded
Authorities described a calculated attack. According to Pirro, the assault was "targeted" and the suspect had allegedly driven his vehicle all the way from Washington state to Washington, D.C., with the clear intention of reaching the nation's capital.
The ambush occurred around 2:15 p.m. on Wednesday while the two guardsmen were on patrol. Pirro stated the shooter opened fire without provocation, armed with a .357 Smith and Wesson revolver. The assailant offered no warning before attacking the service members.
Ongoing Investigation and Evidence Collection
In the wake of the shooting, a multi-agency investigation is underway. Authorities conducted a search of the suspect's home in Washington state overnight, seizing cellphones, laptops, iPads, and other material.
FBI Director Patel also disclosed that interviews were being conducted in San Diego as part of the investigation connected to the suspect's Washington state residence. While the evidence collection is extensive, officials caution that it is "too soon" to determine a motive for the attack, as stated by Attorney Pirro.
The shocking proximity of the violence to the White House and the background of the suspect have raised serious questions about national security and vetting procedures for individuals entering the United States through special immigration programs.
