Washington, D.C., police confirmed that the suspect in the targeted shooting of two National Guard members will face first-degree murder charges following the death of Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said the suspect, 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, was initially charged with assault with intent to kill while armed and criminal weapon possession, but charges have now been upgraded.
The shooting occurred Wednesday afternoon near Farragut West Metro station, when Lakanwal allegedly ambushed Beckstrom and Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, firing multiple rounds without provocation. Beckstrom later succumbed to her injuries.
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Wolfe remains in critical condition, while authorities continue to investigate the suspect’s motive. Law enforcement sources noted that Lakanwal drove from Washington state specifically to target the National Guard personnel.
A search of Lakanwal’s Bellingham home revealed numerous electronic devices, and officials are examining his links to partner forces in Afghanistan, which are being investigated by the FBI and Department of Defense.
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Lakanwal, an Afghan national, arrived in the United States in 2021 and was granted asylum in April 2024. The investigation continues as authorities probe potential overseas or domestic associates connected to the suspect.