WASHINGTON (AP) — Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, has been charged with federal firearms offenses related to the ambush of two National Guard troops near the White House on November 26, which led to the fatal shooting of one and serious injury to the other. Lakanwal is accused of transporting a firearm in interstate commerce with the intent to commit a crime, as well as transporting a stolen firearm. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro highlighted the impact of this crime on the victims' families, particularly emphasizing the loss of Sarah Beckstrom, who was just 20 years old.
Lakanwal has also been charged with first-degree murder and assault with intent to kill under D.C. law. During the incident, Beckstrom lost her life while Wolfe suffered serious injuries but is expected to recover. The accused, who was also shot during the confrontation, has pleaded not guilty to the local charges.
The two National Guard members were deployed for a law enforcement surge in Washington D.C. as part of a federal response to ongoing civil unrest. Authorities claim that Lakanwal traveled from Bellingham, Washington, armed with a stolen firearm while planning the ambush three blocks away from the White House.
Furthermore, Lakanwal, who previously collaborated with the CIA in Afghanistan, entered the U.S. through Operation Allies Welcome, a program set up to assist Afghan nationals following the U.S. troop withdrawal. The situation raises questions about national security and the safety of armed service members in the capital. Lakanwal’s legal representation has not yet commented on the ongoing case.
Lakanwal has also been charged with first-degree murder and assault with intent to kill under D.C. law. During the incident, Beckstrom lost her life while Wolfe suffered serious injuries but is expected to recover. The accused, who was also shot during the confrontation, has pleaded not guilty to the local charges.
The two National Guard members were deployed for a law enforcement surge in Washington D.C. as part of a federal response to ongoing civil unrest. Authorities claim that Lakanwal traveled from Bellingham, Washington, armed with a stolen firearm while planning the ambush three blocks away from the White House.
Furthermore, Lakanwal, who previously collaborated with the CIA in Afghanistan, entered the U.S. through Operation Allies Welcome, a program set up to assist Afghan nationals following the U.S. troop withdrawal. The situation raises questions about national security and the safety of armed service members in the capital. Lakanwal’s legal representation has not yet commented on the ongoing case.
