The memorial service for Sarah Beckstrom, a National Guardsman who was tragically killed, took place over the weekend at her former high school. Among the attendees was her ex-boyfriend, Adam Kerr.
Kerr, who was Beckstrom’s high school sweetheart, was one of around 150 mourners at the emotional event held at Webster County Regional High School in Cowan, West Virginia. In tribute to Beckstrom, flags were flown at half-staff near her small hometown of about 700 residents.
At just 20 years old, Beckstrom was shot last week while on patrol in Washington, D.C.
Kerr, who described himself as someone who would “do anything” for those in need, signed the guestbook with his brother and father before the service began.
Although Beckstrom and Kerr had recently broken up after six years together, they remained on good terms.
Beckstrom enlisted in the West Virginia National Guard in June 2023, serving in the 863rd Military Police Company. Kerr mentioned that he had initial reservations about his deployment to D.C. in August as part of a crackdown on violent crime, worried he might feel lonely. However, once there, she embraced her duties and made friends, earning the nickname “Becky.”
Despite the option to return to West Virginia sooner, Beckstrom chose to stay in Washington. Attorney General Pam Bondi noted that she volunteered to take on a holiday shift so that others could enjoy time with their families.
Beckstrom was fatally shot in an ambush the day before Thanksgiving while standing guard alongside Air Force Staff Sergeant John Beckstrom, another National Guard member. The assailant, Andrew Wolfe, 24, opened fire.
She underwent emergency surgery but ultimately succumbed to her injuries. Wolfe remains in critical condition.
The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Rakanwal, was shot multiple times by National Guardsmen before his arrest and is currently hospitalized. He faces multiple charges, including assault with intent to kill and possession of a weapon, each carrying a potential 15-year prison sentence.
According to Bondi, prosecutors are seeking the death penalty against Rakanwal.
