Shooting Incident Involving Afghan Asylum Seeker
The Afghan man accused of shooting and killing two National Guardsmen in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday had previously displayed signs of mental health issues and social isolation, according to various reports.
Rahmanullah Rakanwar struggled to adapt to life in the United States, with community advocates stating that an email shared with the Associated Press highlighted his challenges. Those who worked with his family in Washington state expressed concern over his erratic behavior prior to the shooting, suggesting he was having difficulty assimilating, finding stable employment, and committing to English language classes.
One community member, who chose to remain anonymous, noted in a January 2024 email that Rakanwar had not been able to function properly as a person, father, or caregiver since March of the previous year. They mentioned that he quit his job during that month and underwent significant changes in behavior.
Despite being resettled with his wife and five sons, Rakanwar reportedly experienced “periods of dark isolation and reckless travel,” often spending long stretches alone in a dark room without interacting with anyone—even his family.
Media reports indicated that the family would have Rakanwar’s young sons deliver messages because he would not respond to anyone.
According to further reports, after his wife left home for a week, their children faced difficulties with basic tasks, prompting concerns from the school.
Moreover, emails indicate that Rakanwar and his family faced eviction due to months of unpaid rent.
Community leaders had worries about Rakanwar potentially harming himself, although there were no indications he posed a threat to others.
In correspondence, Rakanwar described going through an “in-between” period, aiming to “do the right thing,” which seemingly devolved into manic episodes lasting one to two weeks where he would leave in the family car and drive for long hours.
U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, Jeanine Pirro, noted that Rakanwar is believed to have traveled from Washington state to the capital, where he shot and killed two National Guardsmen. The victims included West Virginia National Guard Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, who was killed, and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, who was severely injured. Authorities have charged Rakanwar with first-degree murder.
In a related note, the United States Committee on Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI) visited Rakanwar’s hometown in 2024 but found that he had declined assistance, as there was no updated communication from the nonprofit.
