National Guard Member Dies in White House Area Shooting
President Donald Trump confirmed on Thursday that National Guard soldier Sarah Beckstrom has died from injuries sustained in a shooting near the White House. A second soldier remains critically injured and is “fighting for his life.”
Key Details
- Shooting occurred Wednesday afternoon near 17th Street NW and I Street NW
- Sarah Beckstrom, from West Virginia, succumbed to her injuries
- Second National Guard member in “very bad shape” according to Trump
- Attacker identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, an Afghan national
Trump’s Emotional Announcement
President Trump learned of Beckstrom’s death moments before a Thanksgiving video call with troops. He described her as a “highly respected, young, magnificent person” and shared the tragic news during the call.
“Seconds before I went on right now, I heard that Sarah Beckstrom of West Virginia… highly respected, young magnificent person… She’s just passed away. She’s no longer with us. She’s looking down at us right now. Her parents are with her. This just happened,”
Security Response and Location
The shooting triggered immediate lockdowns at the White House, Main Treasury building, and Freedman’s Bank Building. The incident occurred just blocks from the presidential residence in an area containing the Eisenhower Executive Office Building used by White House staff.
President’s Vow of Justice
Trump promised severe consequences for the attacker, stating:
“The animal that shot the two National Guardsmen is also severely wounded, but regardless, will pay a very steep price. God bless our Great National Guard, and all of our Military and Law Enforcement. I am with you.”
Suspect Background
Authorities identified the accused shooter as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national who entered the United States in 2021. Reports indicate he had previously worked with the CIA in Afghanistan.
