A suspected Afghan terrorist, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, will face upgraded murder charges after an ambush attack that resulted in the death of a National Guard soldier and left another critically injured. Jeanine Pirro, the US Attorney for the District of Columbia, announced the decision on Friday, stating that the charges would be escalated to first-degree murder following the death of 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom.
The incident occurred in Washington, D.C., where Beckstrom was killed, and her fellow Guardsman, 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe, was left fighting for his life. Pirro emphasized the gravity of the situation, declaring, “There are certainly many more charges to come, but we are upgrading the initial charges of assault to murder in the first degree.” Prior to Beckstrom’s death late Thursday night, Lakanwal had already been charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, as well as possession of a firearm during a violent crime.
Details of the Ambush Attack
According to Prosecutor Pirro, the attack was premeditated and constituted an ambush against unsuspecting victims. “What happened at that crime is unmistakable. It is a premeditated murder. There was an ambush with a gun toward people who didn’t know it was coming,” she stated during an interview with Fox News.
The tragic events have resonated deeply within the community and the nation. Pirro described the incident as an “outrage,” particularly given that it occurred during a national holiday. She expressed her commitment to ensuring that Lakanwal faces the full extent of the law for his actions. “This is a case that has touched the hearts of so many Americans… the individual who did this will pay the ultimate price,” she added.
Next Steps in the Case
As the investigation continues, further charges against Lakanwal are expected. The decision to upgrade the charges reflects the severity of the attack and the impact on both the victims’ families and the broader community. The case illustrates the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in addressing violent crime and ensuring justice for victims.
The U.S. Attorney’s office is working closely with local law enforcement agencies to gather evidence and build a comprehensive case against Lakanwal. As developments unfold, the focus remains on supporting the grieving families and honoring the lives of those affected by this tragic incident.
