In a heartbreaking and deeply shocking moment for the nation, what should have been a routine night of duty for two young National Guard members erupted into unimaginable tragedy just steps away from the White House.
The victims — 20-year-old Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and 24-year-old Specialist Andrew Wolfe — were positioned near a security post when sudden gunfire shattered the calm, leaving both soldiers critically injured before they even had a chance to react.
Today, the nation received the news it feared most: Sarah Beckstrom has succumbed to her injuries. Her passing comes only hours after her father’s emotional revelation that she had suffered what doctors described as a “mortal wound.” Now, those warnings have become a devastating reality.
Authorities quickly identified the suspected gunman as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national. He was detained within moments of the attack, subdued by nearby Guardsmen who rushed in after hearing the shots. Investigators now believe the assault was deliberate and targeted, not random — a calculated ambush carried out at close range, with chilling precision.
Officials confirmed that Lakanwal was armed with a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver, the weapon they say was used to shoot both service members before he was overpowered and taken into custody.
Across the nation, online searches are surging as Americans scramble to understand what happened in one of the most secure areas of the country:
🟢 “Who shot the National Guard?”
🟢 “National Guard shooter DC”
🟢 “Two Guardsmen shot near White House”
Millions are seeking answers, and many are asking how such a deadly breach could occur so close to the heart of American security.
As the investigation intensifies, federal agencies are digging into Lakanwal’s background, attempting to uncover what could have motivated this sudden act of violence. While no extremist connections have been confirmed at this stage, investigators say they are keeping every possible angle open as they search for a motive.
Meanwhile, the nation stands in solidarity with the families.
Sarah’s death has prompted an overwhelming outpouring of grief, prayers, and tributes from across the country. Friends, fellow soldiers, and even strangers are honoring a brave young woman who proudly wore the uniform and had only recently begun her service to the nation.
Andrew Wolfe remains hospitalized, with doctors working urgently to stabilize him. His family waits in agony, hoping he will pull through as the nation keeps him in its thoughts.
This horrifying attack — carried out in the shadow of the White House — has ignited new questions about national security, internal threats, and the dangers service members face even while on domestic duty. More updates are expected as investigators work to piece together the moments leading up to the attack and the motives behind it.
For now, America mourns the loss of a promising young soldier and prays for the recovery of another.
Rest in peace, Specialist Sarah Beckstrom.
May your courage, service, and sacrifice be remembered forever.
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