Tragedy in West Virginia After Thanksgiving Shooting

In Charleston, West Virginia, officials expressed their outrage following a shooting on Thanksgiving night that resulted in the death of one member of the West Virginia National Guard. The incident also left another person critically injured. One local leader criticized the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, reflecting on how the tight-knit community grieves together during such times.

Rahmahullah Rakanwal reportedly collaborated with a CIA-associated group against the Taliban for the U.S., playing a role in the evacuation efforts during the fall of Kabul when Joe Biden was president.

Josh Holstein, the West Virginia Republican Party Chairman, shared his anger after the reported death of Sarah Beckstrom from Summersville, and the critical condition of Andrew Wolf from Inwood. “This is a serious matter for us,” Holstein stated. “Such events are rare in West Virginia—it’s truly a tragic situation.”

“West Virginia feels like one big little town,” he commented, emphasizing the community’s tendency to unite in both sorrow and joy. Political differences fade when tragedy strikes, with leaders from both major parties, including Democratic Chairman Mike Pushkin and Republican Senators Jim Justice and Shelley Moore Capito, offering heartfelt sentiments.

Holstein noted that the community shared not only grief but also gratitude for the fallen soldiers. Thanksgiving, which should be a joyful occasion, was, of course, a painful reminder of loss. “While we were thankful for what we have, some of us weren’t able to celebrate with loved ones,” he added.

“While these men battled for their lives, one of them has now passed away.” He pointed out West Virginians’ deep-seated commitment to serving others, highlighting how the state has a notable number of veterans compared to others in the nation.

However, that sorrow shifted to anger as details about Rakanwal’s background emerged. Holstein expressed frustration that Rakanwal, who is 29, should not even be in the U.S.

He criticized the chaotic nature of the 2021 Afghanistan withdrawal, describing it as a complete failure that led to many fleeing to America. “This is not just about one person,” he remarked, suggesting that it points to systemic issues within the immigration policy that seems to prioritize others over American citizens.

Holstein backed former President Trump’s focus on stricter immigration control, advocating for a merit-based approach in vetting newcomers. He firmly believes that tragedies like this highlight the need for reform in immigration practices.

When asked about sending more National Guard troops to Washington D.C. for safety initiatives, Holstein’s stance was clear. “We can’t be intimidated. We owe it to those affected to stand strong,” he stated, noting that around 150 Guard members are currently deployed in the capital.