WASHINGTON, D.C. — A young West Virginia National Guard soldier who came to the nation’s capital to serve and protect has tragically lost her life after a shocking ambush-style shooting just blocks from the White House.
Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died on November 27, 2025, less than 24 hours after she and another guard member were gunned down while on patrol near 17th & I Streets NW.
Beckstrom had been fighting for her life in critical condition but succumbed to her injuries early Thursday morning — marking a heartbreaking end to a life dedicated to service.
Another soldier, 24-year-old Specialist Andrew Wolfe, remains hospitalized in critical condition.
A CALCULATED ATTACK IN THE HEART OF D.C.
Authorities say the suspect, 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, carried out a targeted, ambush-style attack using a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver.
Investigators say Lakanwal approached the soldiers without warning and opened fire at close range.
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Following Beckstrom’s death, prosecutors upgraded charges to first-degree murder, and federal officials have confirmed they will seek the death penalty.
Detectives are now treating the attack as a potential act of terrorism, intensifying scrutiny over Lakanwal’s background, immigration pathway, and motive.
WHO SARAH BECKSTROM WAS: A DEDICATED YOUNG SOLDIER WHO SERVED SO OTHERS COULD BE HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Beckstrom’s story is devastating because her life was just beginning.
Fresh out of Webster County High School’s Class of 2023, she joined the West Virginia National Guard in June 2023. Assigned to the 863rd Military Police Company, 111th Engineer Brigade, she deployed to D.C. in August 2025 as part of a heightened federal security surge.
Her family says she volunteered to work the Thanksgiving holiday so other service members could go home.
The loss has shaken not just her hometown of Summersville, but the entire state.
During a Thanksgiving Day call with troops, President Donald J. Trump publicly announced Beckstrom’s death, calling her a “magnificent young person” and “outstanding in every single way.”
Federal leaders including U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel vowed a full-force federal response and promised Beckstrom’s family justice.
In response, federal officials have reportedly authorized 500 additional National Guard troops to be deployed in Washington.
