UPDATE: In a shocking turn of events, the suspect in the shooting of two National Guard members has now been charged with first-degree murder. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro announced this critical update just hours after the tragic death of Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, who succumbed to her injuries following Wednesday’s attack in Washington, D.C..
The shooting, which occurred on July 12, has escalated into a national crisis, raising urgent questions about security and the motives behind the ambush. Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains in critical condition as authorities continue to investigate the incident.
Beckstrom, a dedicated military police officer from Summersville, West Virginia, had volunteered for this mission with the National Guard to help protect the capital. She graduated from Webster County High School just one month before enlisting, serving “with distinction” according to her unit. As President Donald Trump confirmed the news of her passing, the nation mourns the loss of a brave young soldier.
Authorities report that the suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, initially faced lesser charges including assault with intent to kill. However, following the deadly outcome of the shooting, those charges have been significantly upgraded. Pirro described Lakanwal’s actions as an “ambush-style” attack, using a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver, as he allegedly drove cross-country to carry out the assault.
In a statement to Fox News, Pirro expressed her condolences to Beckstrom’s family, emphasizing the tragic nature of the attack. “She volunteered to serve and ended up being shot ambush-style on the cold streets of Washington, D.C., by an individual who will now be charged with murder in the first degree,” she said.
The investigation is ongoing, with Pirro indicating that “many charges to come” are expected as authorities delve deeper into Lakanwal’s background. He previously worked in a CIA-backed Afghan Army unit before emigrating to the U.S. in 2021 under the operation aimed at resettling Afghans following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Pirro has not disclosed any potential motives but confirmed that investigators are actively working around the clock to determine the reasons behind this shocking act of violence. “We still have hope” for Wolfe, she stated, while ensuring that his family receives the necessary support during this challenging time.
As this story develops, it highlights the urgent need for enhanced security measures for military personnel across the country. The impact of this tragic incident is profound, resonating throughout the military community and beyond.
Stay tuned for further updates as we continue to follow this developing story.
