National Guard Member Sarah Beckstrom Killed in D.C. Shooting
UPDATE: A devastating shooting in Washington, D.C., has left 20-year-old National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom dead and another guardsman critically injured. The incident unfolded on Thanksgiving Day, November 23, 2023, as Beckstrom was shot, prompting an immediate outpouring of grief and calls for justice.
Suspected Shooter Identified: Authorities have identified the alleged shooter as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national who entered the U.S. in 2021 under humanitarian parole. He is currently in serious condition following the incident. Beckstrom’s fellow guardsman, 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe, is fighting for his life in the hospital.
President Donald Trump announced Beckstrom’s tragic death earlier today, describing her as a “magnificent person” who began her service in June 2023. He extended condolences to her family, emphasizing her ultimate sacrifice for the nation.
The shooting has ignited a national conversation about safety and immigration procedures. Lakanwal, who was vetted by the CIA in Afghanistan and again for his asylum application in the U.S., had a clean background check. However, this tragedy has raised serious questions about the vetting process for Afghan refugees admitted under Operation Allies Welcome.
In response to the shooting, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced a thorough reevaluation of green cards issued to immigrants from “countries of concern,” including Afghanistan. New national security measures will be implemented to enhance the vetting process for individuals from high-risk nations.
Across the nation, officials are expressing profound sorrow and support for Beckstrom’s family. Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth honored her as an American hero, while FBI Director Kash Patel urged prayers for the grieving families. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro vowed to seek justice for Beckstrom, promising to pursue the death penalty for Lakanwal if warranted.
Governor Patrick Morrisey of West Virginia and Senators Jim Justice and Shelley Moore Capito also shared their condolences, highlighting Beckstrom’s bravery and dedication to her country. The shared grief reflects the immense impact her loss has had on the community and beyond.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on ensuring justice for Sarah Beckstrom and the safety of all service members. The tragic events of Thanksgiving Day serve as a stark reminder of the risks faced by those in uniform and the urgent need for accountability in immigration processes.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
