Afghan national charged in Guard ambush shooting drove across US to carry out attack, officials say

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national who worked alongside the CIA, ambushed two National Guard members in Washington, D. C. , on Wednesday. Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, remain in critical condition after the attack, which took place blocks from the White House.

U. S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro confirmed Lakanwal faces charges including assault with intent to kill and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. The shooting has sparked renewed discussions about the presence of military personnel in urban areas and the implications for public safety. Lakanwal, who immigrated to the U.

S. in 2021, served in a CIA-backed unit known as Zero Units during the Afghanistan War. His cousin revealed that Lakanwal had risen through the ranks, becoming a team leader in his unit. The Trump administration quickly responded by deploying an additional 500 National Guard members to Washington. As investigations continue, officials are concerned about the potential motives behind this violent act.