On Wednesday, a tragic incident occurred in Washington, D.C., where two soldiers from the West Virginia National Guard were shot. One of the victims, Sarah Beckstrom, 20, was noted by President Trump as a “wonderful person” who had only recently begun her military career in June 2023. He announced her passing on Thanksgiving Day, expressing sorrow over her loss and emphasizing that she is now at peace, saying, “She was attacked badly. She is now gone.”
The second soldier, Andrew Wolf, 24, remains in critical condition, with Trump mentioning, “He’s fighting for his life, so I hope we get some good news about him.”
The accused shooter, Rahmanullah Rakanwal, described by Trump as a “monster,” is also reported to be in serious condition. The President remarked that they weren’t focusing on him during this incredibly difficult time.
In response to Beckstrom’s death, local officials and lawmakers shared their condolences. Pentagon Secretary Pete Hegseth called her an “American hero” on social media, asking the nation to join in prayer for her loved ones. FBI Director Kash Patel expressed that Beckstrom was a “young soldier and a patriot” who had so much ahead of her. DCUS Attorney Jeanine Pirro honored her sacrifice and urged for justice to be served quickly.
Attorney General Pam Bondi said she was devastated and reiterated the need for justice for Sarah while also wishing for Andrew’s speedy recovery. She mentioned plans for the Justice Department to seek the death penalty against the suspected shooter.
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrissey praised Beckstrom’s courage and sense of duty, stating that her commitment to service was exemplary. He expressed sorrow for her loss and emphasized the respect she earned from her community.
Senators from West Virginia, including Jim Justice and Shelley Moore Capito, conveyed their heartbreak and solidarity with Beckstrom’s family during such a challenging time for the state. They stressed the importance of supporting the servicemen and women as they mourn the loss of a fellow soldier.
Rakanwal, the shooter, legally entered the United States in 2021 under a humanitarian parole program after the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. Investigations found that his background checks returned with no issues, and his asylum request was approved earlier this year.
As the situation unfolds, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced a reevaluation of green cards issued to immigrants from countries deemed high-risk, including Afghanistan.
