Incident Overview
An Afghan refugee, who previously collaborated with U.S. military forces, has been accused of attacking two National Guard troops in Washington, D.C. The suspect reportedly traveled across the country to execute this ambush.
According to FBI Director Kash Patel, 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal drove from Bellingham, Washington, to commit what officials describe as a “heinous act of terrorism,” resulting in critical injuries to two West Virginia National Guard members on duty.
Lakanwal faces charges including assault with intent to kill and various gun-related offenses. The injured soldiers, Army Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe and Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, are currently fighting for their lives following the attack.
The FBI is investigating potential terrorism links related to Lakanwal, who arrived in the U.S. after the military withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021. CIA Director John Ratcliffe noted that Lakanwal had worked with U.S. forces and was part of a covert group known as the “Zero Units” that targeted Taliban assets.
Lakanwal entered the United States through President Biden’s “Operation Allies Welcome,” which aimed to resettle Afghans who assisted American troops. He applied for asylum in December 2024 and received approval under the Trump administration.
Patel criticized this resettlement program for allowing Lakanwal into the country, a sentiment echoed by Ratcliffe. The CIA director stated that regardless of his asylum status, Lakanwal would not have been removed due to his parole.
The Biden administration has halted immigration requests from Afghan nationals while security protocols are reassessed. Additionally, former President Trump announced a review of all asylum cases approved during Biden’s tenure.
The shooting occurred near Farragut West Metro station, just blocks from the White House. Witnesses reported that Lakanwal shot one guard member multiple times before being subdued by another soldier.
Lakanwal remains hospitalized following his injuries sustained during the incident. Authorities have not disclosed any specific motive for his actions.
