he Attack
On November 26, 2025, two members of the West Virginia National Guard — Sarah Beckstrom (20) and Andrew Wolfe (24) — were ambushed while on patrol near 17th and I Streets NW, just blocks from the White House in Washington, D.C. At about 2:15 p.m., a lone shooter opened fire with a Smith & Wesson .357-caliber revolver. According to prosecutors and eyewitnesses, the gunman struck Beckstrom — then leaned over and fired again, hitting Wolfe. The Washington Post+2The Washington Post+2
Other National Guard members and police quickly responded. One guard used her own weapon during the attack; another placed a pocket knife against the shooter, helping subdue him. The suspect was shot and arrested at the scene. Officials said there is no evidence of accomplices so far. The Washington Post+2CBS News+2
Victims’ Backgrounds
Beckstrom, from rural Webster Springs, West Virginia, enlisted in the Army National Guard in June 2023, immediately after graduating from high school. She joined the D.C. deployment in August as part of a force pledged by Donald J. Trump to combat rising crime in the capital. The Washington Post+1
Wolfe, originally from Martinsburg, West Virginia, joined the West Virginia Air National Guard in 2019. He had moved to Washington, D.C. in August along with the rest of his unit. Colleagues described him as quiet but dependable — often helping neighbors or volunteering for extra tasks. The Washington Post+1
Aftermath and Response
Late Thursday, authorities confirmed that Beckstrom had died with her family by her side. Wolfe remains in critical condition after surgery; his family described the next 24–48 hours as the most dangerous period as doctors monitor swelling in his brain. The Washington Post
At a news conference, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia said it will file multiple charges against 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal — including assault with intent to kill while armed and firearm possession during a violent crime. If Wolfe dies, prosecutors indicated they will upgrade the case to a first-degree murder charge. The Washington Post+1
In response, the federal government has ordered an additional 500 National Guard troops deployed to Washington, D.C. The Washington Post+1
Meanwhile, local officials and community members expressed grief and concern: “Two families are shattered and destroyed,” said the U.S. Attorney. The Washington Post+1
Broader Concerns
The shooting — occurring just before Thanksgiving — has reignited debate over the large National Guard presence in the capital: roughly 2,200 troops are currently deployed as part of a mission initiated this summer. Some critics argue that such a heavy military footprint increases risks rather than enhances security. The Washington Post+1
Officials had previously warned that the deployment could attract “lone actors or extremists,” due to the visibility and symbolism of uniformed troops in D.C. The Washington Post+1
As investigations continue, authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation and to allow a full examination of motive, background, and possible motives. The Washington Post+1
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Further reading on DC Guard shooting
