Additional Charges Filed in National Guard Shooting Case
Federal prosecutors have added new charges against an Afghan man linked to the fatal shooting of a National Guard member and the critical injury of another in Washington, D.C. This development raises the potential for the death penalty in the case.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced on Tuesday that Rahmanullah Lakanwal is facing eight new counts in a superseding indictment. Among these counts are charges for murder of someone assisting a U.S. officer and discharging a firearm during a crime that resulted in death, both of which could make him eligible for capital punishment.
Lakanwal, originally from Afghanistan, is accused of killing Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom and critically injuring Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe during what prosecutors describe as an “ambush-style” attack near the White House in November 2025. Additionally, he faces charges for attempting to kill two unnamed service members who apprehended him at the scene.
During the hearing on Tuesday, Lakanwal pleaded not guilty to all charges. Previously, he had entered a not guilty plea to nine other charges, including first-degree murder and firearm offenses.
“Sarah Beckstrom was just 20 years old, serving her country in Washington, D.C., when Lakanwal allegedly drove across the country and executed her steps from the White House,” stated U.S. Attorney Pirro. “This is not merely a crime; it’s a significant offense against the United States. We will pursue every legal penalty available to ensure justice for Sarah Beckstrom and Andrew Wolfe.”
Beckstrom, who was only 20, succumbed to her injuries one day after the shooting.
Moreover, in late January, Wolfe’s mother shared on Facebook that her son was scheduled to undergo reconstructive skull surgery in early March.
Factors contributing to prosecutors considering the death penalty include a federal grand jury’s findings that Lakanwal “intentionally killed” Beckstrom and attempted to kill multiple individuals.
Lakanwal reportedly left Afghanistan in 2021 and was paroled into the U.S. under Operation Allies Welcome, which was initiated to expedite the evacuation of Afghan nationals following the chaotic military withdrawal.
While in Afghanistan, Lakanwal worked with the U.S. government, including the CIA, and led an Afghan military unit that collaborated with international forces.
He later applied for asylum, which was granted last year, while his green card application remained pending, according to a Department of Homeland Security official.
On February 24th, former President Donald Trump awarded the Purple Heart to both Wolfe and Beckstrom for their service and sacrifices.
