Update on West Virginia National Guard Member Injured in Washington Shooting

Fri Dec 05 2025 04:51:30 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe remains in serious condition following a shooting in Washington, D.C. The tragedy led to the death of another National Guard member, Spc. Sarah Beckstrom. The community and officials are rallying support while investigations continue.

24-year-old U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe is currently hospitalized after being shot in a violent incident in Washington, D.C., which also claimed the life of 20-year-old Spc. Sarah Beckstrom. Officials report that Wolfe is showing signs of recovery, prompting calls for prayers from his family. Investigators are looking into the motive behind the shooting, for which 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal is charged with murder and assault. The community is coming together to honor the victims of this unfortunate incident.

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe remains in serious condition following a shooting incident in Washington D.C. last week, which also resulted in the tragic death of his National Guard colleague, Spc. Sarah Beckstrom.

West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey stated that Wolfe showed positive signs of recovery by responding to questions and wiggling his toes. The family of the injured service member is asking the public for prayers as they navigate this difficult time.

“Andrew is still fighting for his life,” Morrisey commented. “He needs our prayers.” Funeral details for Beckstrom are pending, adhering to family requests for privacy.

The incident occurred during a National Guard deployment aimed at assisting in crime-fighting efforts in Washington D.C., which has seen increased tensions and violence. Investigators are currently examining the motive behind the shooting, which resulted in the arrest of 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, charged with first-degree murder.

Lakanwal was also injured during the incident and remains hospitalized. As investigations continue, questions arise about the security of deployed National Guard members, with calls for further protection measures in light of recent events.

In the aftermath of the shooting, the Trump administration paused asylum decisions for Afghan nationals and placed restrictions on visa issuance for those traveling on Afghan passports, indicating heightened concern about potential implications of the incident.

Currently, there are approximately 2,200 troops stationed in Washington D.C. for various operations, of which over 300 are from West Virginia. Governor Morrisey emphasized the need to focus on the welfare of these service members as the community comes together to honor their sacrifices.