Shooting Near White House Leaves Two National Guard Members Critically Wounded in Possible Terror Attack

Two members of the West Virginia National Guard were critically wounded Wednesday afternoon in a brazen ambush just blocks from the White House, law enforcement officials said. The shooting occurred near the Farragut West Metro station — at 17th and I Streets NW — around 2:15 p.m. as the servicemembers stood on patrol.

The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, was also shot during the exchange of gunfire and is now in custody. Authorities say he drove across the country to carry out the attack and used a .357-caliber revolver.

Officials described the shooting as a targeted, ambush-style attack. Other National Guard members and law enforcement on the scene quickly subdued the suspect and secured the area, preventing further harm.

The injured Guard members — identified as Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, 24 — were medevaced to hospitals after suffering gunshot wounds to the head and face. Their condition remains critical.

The shooting has been called a potential act of terror, prompting a major law enforcement and security response. Investigations are ongoing into the suspect’s motive and possible connections.

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