National Guard Member Shot Near White House Dies; Trump Says Second Soldier “Fighting for His Life”

Beckstrom and fellow Guardsman Andrew Wolfe, 24, were patrolling just a few blocks from the White House on November 26 when a gunman opened fire in what authorities described as a sudden and targeted attack. The incident unfolded on the eve of Thanksgiving, sending shockwaves across the country and intensifying debate around national security and immigration policy.

President Trump said Wolfe remains in critical condition, adding that he is “in very bad shape” and “fighting for his life.” He expressed hope that updates on Wolfe’s condition will improve in the coming days.

State Leaders Mourn a Fallen Soldier

West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey also confirmed Beckstrom’s death, writing on X that she “passed away from the injuries sustained during yesterday’s horrific shooting.” He praised her unwavering dedication to duty, describing her as the embodiment of courage and commitment within the National Guard.

“Sarah stepped forward willingly and served with extraordinary resolve,” Morrisey wrote. “Her character and strength reflect the very best of West Virginia and of our nation.”

Suspect Identified, Motive Under Investigation

The suspected gunman has been identified as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national who entered the U.S. in 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome, a resettlement program initiated after the fall of Kabul. President Trump criticized the Biden administration’s handling of the program, referring to the shooter as a “monster” and noting that he, too, is in serious condition after the incident.

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that the suspect may face terrorism-related charges pending the results of the investigation.

Political Shockwaves

The attack has immediately reignited national debates around immigration screening and refugee vetting. In a video message released Wednesday night, President Trump called for a reinvestigation of all Afghan refugees admitted under the previous administration. “If they can’t love our country, we don’t want them,” he said, describing the shooting as “a crime against our entire nation.”

A Nation in Grief

As the investigation unfolds, tributes continue pouring in for Specialist Beckstrom — a young soldier remembered for her bravery, selflessness, and sense of duty. The Pentagon, state officials, and community leaders have expressed condolences to her family and pledged full support to those affected.

The White House, though not occupied by Trump at the time of the attack, has since increased security around key federal areas as the nation grapples with yet another tragic act of violence.