UPDATE: A tragic shooting in Washington, D.C., has claimed the life of 20-year-old National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom on November 23, 2023. The suspected shooter, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national, is also in serious condition following the incident that has sent shockwaves through the nation.
The shooting occurred on Thanksgiving Day, leaving another guardsman, 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe, critically injured and fighting for his life. President Donald Trump confirmed Beckstrom’s death, describing her as a “magnificent person” with unwavering dedication to her service, which began in June 2023.
This heartbreaking event has ignited a wave of grief and tributes from officials across the country. Trump extended his condolences to Beckstrom’s family, emphasizing her ultimate sacrifice for the nation.
“Sarah Beckstrom embodied the spirit of service and commitment,”
said Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth, who honored her memory on social media. FBI Director Kash Patel and Attorney General Pam Bondi echoed these sentiments, stressing the need for justice and pledging to pursue the death penalty for Lakanwal.
The alleged shooter, Lakanwal, entered the U.S. in 2021 under humanitarian parole as part of Operation Allies Welcome. He had been vetted by the CIA in Afghanistan and had a clean background check. This incident has raised urgent questions regarding the vetting processes for Afghan refugees.
In response to the shooting, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced a reevaluation of green cards issued to immigrants from “countries of concern,” including Afghanistan, and new national security measures will be implemented during the vetting of immigrants from high-risk regions.
As the investigation continues, officials are vowing to ensure accountability and prioritize community safety. The tragic loss of Sarah Beckstrom has resonated deeply, with officials from West Virginia, including Governor Patrick Morrisey and Senators Jim Justice and Shelley Moore Capito, expressing profound heartbreak and support for her family.
The nation mourns the loss of a young hero, and as tributes pour in, the focus remains on justice for Beckstrom and her fellow guardsman. Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds.
