In brief
A shooting incident in Washington, D.C., left 24-year-old Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe hospitalized in serious condition, while U.S. Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom was tragically killed. The incident occurred as both members of the West Virginia National Guard were deployed for a crime-fighting mission. Authorities are investigating the motives surrounding the attack.
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, a member of the West Virginia National Guard, is in serious yet stable condition following a shooting incident last week in Washington, D.C. Wolfe displayed positive signs in his recovery, communicating with thumbs-ups and toe movements, according to Governor Patrick Morrisey.
Wolfe's family has requested the public's prayers during this challenging time. Tragically, 20-year-old U.S. Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, a fellow guard member, was killed in the attack that unfolded just blocks from the White House.
Governor Morrisey confirmed that plans for Beckstrom's funeral are still pending, respecting the family's wishes for privacy. The incident occurred on a Wednesday as both guards were deployed as part of a federalized initiative to enhance security in the capital.
Authorities are currently investigating the motivations behind the shooting, with 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal charged with first-degree murder and two counts of assault. Lakanwal was injured in the confrontation and remains hospitalized.
The shooting prompted the Trump administration to suspend asylum decisions and visa issuances for Afghan nationals as a precautionary measure. Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reported that President Trump has ordered the deployment of an additional 500 National Guard members to assist with security efforts in Washington.
More than 2,200 National Guard troops are currently deployed in the capital, nearly 300 of whom hail from West Virginia. Morrisey emphasized that the immediate focus is on the well-being of the service members and their families during this difficult period.
