Suspect in D.C. National Guard Shooting Pleads Not Guilty as Prosecutors Weigh Tougher Charges.
A man accused of fatally shooting a National Guard member and seriously injuring another was arraigned in federal court on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.
Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, an Afghan national, entered the courtroom in a wheelchair and an orange jumpsuit.
He pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including first-degree murder while armed, transportation of a firearm and ammunition in interstate commerce with the intent to commit a felony, and assault with intent to kill while armed.
Lakanwal faces additional charges for possessing a firearm during a violent crime.
His defense attorney spoke on his behalf as he communicated through an interpreter, using Pashto.
The Shooting Incident:
Lakanwal is accused of opening fire on two National Guard members, Spc. Sarah Beckstrom and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, who were patrolling near the White House as part of their deployment to Washington, D.C.
On November 26, 2025, Beckstrom was tragically killed after being shot in the back of the head, while Wolfe was seriously injured with a gunshot wound to the head.
Wolfe was immediately rushed to the hospital in critical condition but was later transferred to an inpatient rehabilitation facility in December.
The shooting left the D.C. National Guard and the public shaken, as it occurred in the heart of the nation’s capital.
Federal Criminal Complaint and Evidence:
The federal criminal complaint filed against Lakanwal describes video footage showing him standing outside a metro station before running toward an interstate highway, where he opened fire with a revolver.
A National Guard major in the area returned fire, wounding Lakanwal, while another major detained him.
According to the complaint, Lakanwal had traveled from his home in Washington State to D.C. with the deliberate intent to harm.
Investigators have emphasized that the shooting was premeditated, as Lakanwal “purposely and with deliberate and premeditated malice” shot the two Guardsmen.
Lakanwal’s Background and Legal Proceedings:
Lakanwal, who speaks Pashto, had been living in Washington State before traveling to Washington, D.C. to carry out the shooting.
He has pleaded not guilty to the charges of first-degree murder, assault with intent to kill while armed, and possession of a firearm during a violent crime, as well as the transportation of a firearm across state lines.
In December, he was arraigned in D.C. Superior Court, where he again pleaded not guilty to charges including first-degree murder and assault with intent to kill.
His plea came shortly after the shocking events, which left the D.C. community, especially the National Guard, devastated.
The Impact on the National Guard and Community:
The tragic deaths of Spc. Sarah Beckstrom and the injury to Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe have had a significant emotional impact on the National Guard and the Washington, D.C. community.
Beckstrom, remembered for her dedication and service, was mourned deeply by her family, friends, and fellow service members.
The shooting underscores the vulnerabilities that law enforcement and military personnel face, even when performing routine duties in public spaces.
The tragic loss of a dedicated National Guard member has drawn attention to the risks that come with such service and the need for stronger protection for those who serve and protect the public.
The National Guard, the military, and the D.C. community will continue to honor Beckstrom’s memory and offer support to her grieving family.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings:
Lakanwal remains in custody as he faces federal charges related to the shooting, and his case is expected to continue through the legal system.
The proceedings will involve further investigation and legal arguments, with the possibility of more charges being added as the case unfolds.
The public and the families affected by the shooting will be closely watching the legal process, hoping for justice for the victims of this senseless act of violence.
The Call for Justice:
The arrest and arraignment of Rahmanullah Lakanwal have sparked widespread calls for justice, with many hoping that the legal system will hold him fully accountable for his actions.
The charges of premeditated murder and assault reflect the severity of the crime, and if convicted, Lakanwal faces significant penalties.
For the National Guard members, the case serves as a reminder of the risks they face while performing their duties, and for the community, it highlights the importance of ensuring the safety of all those who serve to protect the nation.
As the case proceeds, it is hoped that the victims’ families will find some measure of justice, and the D.C. community can begin to heal from the tragic loss.
