A 29-year-old suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, is facing a first-degree murder charge after the death of U.S. Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, who was shot in an ambush in Washington, D.C., the day before Thanksgiving. The upgraded charge was announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro after officials confirmed that Beckstrom died from her injuries at a local hospital. Authorities also said that additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.
The shooting occurred near Farragut Square, a park located about two blocks from the White House. According to officials, Beckstrom was attacked while serving in the area. She was quickly taken to a hospital but later died from her wounds. A second victim, Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, was also injured in the shooting and remains hospitalized in critical condition, reportedly fighting for his life.
Lakanwal has been charged with several serious offenses. These include first-degree murder, three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed. Authorities said he was arrested shortly after the shooting took place.
Sarah Beckstrom was a 20-year-old member of the West Virginia National Guard’s 863rd Military Police Company, part of the 111th Engineer Brigade. She had been deployed to Washington, D.C., since August and had volunteered to work during the Thanksgiving holiday. Her father later shared the heartbreaking news of her death on Facebook, describing the incident as a devastating tragedy for their family.
Officials also stated that Lakanwal is an Afghan national who entered the United States in September 2021 during evacuation efforts following the fall of Kabul. Authorities believe he later overstayed his visa.
