In brief
Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, a 24-year-old member of the West Virginia National Guard, remains in serious but stable condition following a shooting in Washington, D.C., which also claimed the life of 20-year-old Spc. Sarah Beckstrom. Governor Patrick Morrisey confirmed that Wolfe is responding to stimuli, giving signs of recovery. The assailant, Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, has been charged with first-degree murder. The shooting has raised concerns about motives, led to changes in asylum decisions, and focused discussions around the deployment of National Guard members in the area.
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — A member of the West Virginia National Guard remains in serious condition after being shot in a daytime attack in Washington, D.C. Echoing the governor's plea for prayers, Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, exhibited positive signs of responsiveness, including wiggling his toes. Sadly, U.S. Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, just 20 years old, was killed during the incident.
Governor Patrick Morrisey confirmed that the family of Wolfe is seeking public support through prayers as he continues to fight for his life. Morrisey indicated details on funeral arrangements for Beckstrom would be forthcoming while respecting her family's wishes.
The attack occurred near the White House as Wolfe and Beckstrom were deployed under federal orders to assist in local law enforcement efforts as part of President Donald Trump’s crime-fighting initiative.
Authorities are currently investigating the motives behind the shooting, with Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, charged with first-degree murder and two counts of assault. Lakanwal was also injured in the encounter and remains hospitalized.
The tragic event prompted the Trump administration to halt all asylum decisions and pause visa issuance for Afghan nationals. Furthermore, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth mentioned Trump ordered an increase of 500 National Guard members to be deployed in D.C., however, Morrisey stated he hasn’t been requested to send more troops from West Virginia.
Currently, around 2,200 troops are involved in the operation, including over 300 troops from West Virginia deployed in the area since August, with some extending their deployment until year-end. Morrisey emphasized the focus remains on ensuring the well-being of service members and their families amid this challenging time.
