Tragic Death of National Guard Member Following Washington DC Attack
A National Guard service member shot in Washington DC has died from her injuries, according to US President Donald Trump. The incident occurred on Wednesday, with the death confirmed on Thursday 27th November 2025.
Sarah Beckstrom, a 20-year-old from West Virginia, "just passed away" according to the President, who described her as a "highly respected" and "magnificent person."
Critical Condition of Second Victim
The attack left two National Guard members wounded. Andrew Wolfe, aged 24, remains in critical condition following the shooting. Both service members had been deployed as part of President Trump's initiative to address what he describes as high crime levels in certain American cities.
Investigators have revealed that the suspected gunman is 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, who is currently in a serious condition. Authorities have disclosed that Lakanwal previously worked in a CIA-backed Afghan army unit before successfully obtaining asylum in the United States earlier this year.
Terrorism Investigation Underway
Law enforcement officials are treating the violent attack as an act of terrorism. Multiple properties were searched on Thursday as part of the ongoing investigation, including a Washington state property connected to Lakanwal.
The National Guard deployment in Washington DC has been a contentious aspect of President Trump's crime reduction strategy. This tragic incident marks the first fatality among National Guard personnel deployed under this programme.
Security officials have intensified their investigation following Beckstrom's death, with additional details expected to emerge as the probe continues. The White House has yet to release an official statement regarding potential changes to National Guard deployment protocols in response to this incident.
