Staff Reports
Two members of the West Virginia National Guard were the victims of a tragic, targeted shooting outside the White House in Washington, D.C., on November 26, 2025. The two Guardsmen were conducting a high-visibility patrol near the Farragut West metro station, only two blocks from the White House, when a lone gunman opened fire at close range. The attack was described as an ambush, with the suspect firing 10 to 15 shots using a .357 Magnum revolver before being subdued by law enforcement after a return of gunfire from the guardsmen.
The wounded National Guard members were identified as 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom and 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe, both from West Virginia. Despite undergoing surgery, Beckstrom tragically died from her injuries the following day, while Wolfe remains in critical condition, fighting for his life. The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national, reportedly entered the U.S. through the Biden administration’s “Operation Allies Welcome” program, which has now come under intense scrutiny for its vetting processes.
President Trump condemned the shooting as a “heinous assault” and an “act of terror,” laying blame on the Biden administration for lax immigration and security measures that allowed the suspect entry. In response, Trump announced a halt to all Afghan immigration applications and demanded a re-evaluation of all Afghan immigrants admitted to the United States under the previous administration. This incident has intensified the ongoing debate about national security, immigration vetting, and the risks posed by admitting refugees from war-torn regions without sufficient screening.
The shooting provoked a national discussion about the deployment of National Guard troops in the capital, part of a controversial domestic mobilization ordered by President Trump in August 2025. While the deployment aimed to enhance federal law enforcement presence in Washington, D.C., critics argue it raises questions about the use of military forces within domestic borders. Still, the incident underscored the dangers faced by service members even on American soil while performing their duties to protect public safety.
As investigations continue, there is a call across political lines for unity and support for the injured Guardsmen and their families. The attack serves as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by members of the military who risk their lives to secure the homeland. In these challenging times, it is crucial to stand behind those who defend America, ensuring justice for the victims and reinforcing the nation’s commitment to safety and security.
