New footage of DC National Guard shooting released
Recently surfaced videos have revealed the shocking moment when two National Guard members were attacked during broad daylight in Washington, D.C. Tragically, this ambush resulted in one soldier’s death, while another remains in critical condition.
The video, captured by a passerby and handed over to authorities, features 29-year-old Rahmanullah Rakanwar wielding what seems to be a revolver as two guards seek cover. Following this, one of the guards is seen sprinting around a corner, returning fire.
This alarming incident unfolded about three blocks from the White House, where a soldier raised his arms before suddenly opening fire on two members of the West Virginia National Guard, according to reports.
The footage briefly depicts fallen soldiers on the ground, with the confrontation taking place around 2:15 p.m. on 17th Street Northwest by the Farragut West subway station. Federal documents indicated that the assailant let off between 10 to 15 shots from a .357 revolver.
Authorities shared that one guard returned fire, injuring the shooter and bringing an end to the attack. Specialist Sarah Beckstrom succumbed to her injuries shortly afterward, while Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe continues to battle for his life.
Notably, Rakanwar had arrived in the U.S. in September 2021 under the Afghan evacuation program, Operation Welcoming Allies. Prosecutors noted that he had traveled across the country prior to the shooting and had no prior criminal record. He now faces severe charges, including first-degree murder, with the Justice Department reportedly aiming for the death penalty.
Following the events, Beckstrom and Wolfe, deployed earlier this year as part of a presidential order to address crime in the capital, have elicited concern from their community. Congressman Riley Moore remarked on “Fox & Friends Weekend” that Wolfe’s family is hopeful and asking for prayers, stressing that Wolfe’s father had been a sheriff and the son wished to follow that legacy.
The gravity of this situation has deeply affected the local community, with West Virginia’s Governor Patrick Morrissey expressing the need for justice. He emphasized that the community honors its service members and expects accountability in the wake of such tragedies. Wolfe’s condition remains critical, and his family is calling for support and prayers from across the country.
