WASHINGTON D.C. — The gunman that shot and ambushed two members of the West Virginia National Guard outside the White House last week has been charged with murder.
Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, an Afghan national, shot Spec. Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and SSgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, last Wednesday while the two were paroling in the city. Beckstrom died from her injuries a day later on Thanksgiving. Wolfe is in critical condition.
On Tuesday, Lakanwal was charged with one count of murder, two counts of assault with the intent to kill, and a count of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. Reports say he appeared before a judge remotely from his hospital bed. He was shot by another National Guard member after shooting Beckstrom and Wolfe.
A criminal complaint released Tuesday gave more details about the shooting.
According to the complaint, Lakanwal shot Beckstrom in the back of the head. It said he shot Beckstrom from behind and was trying to reload before he was subdued. The complaint also showed that Wolfe was shot in the head.
The complaint went on to say that Lakanwal was a married father of five children.
In the past few days, Wolfe has been responsive with some movement of his toes, and he has also acknowledged a nurse that spoke to him.
Governor Patrick Morrisey released a statement Tuesday evening regarding the charges. He says West Virginia is appreciative for quick action.
“The people of West Virginia appreciate the swift action taken by the Department of Justice, Attorney General Pam Bondi, U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, and federal and D.C. authorities as they pursue justice for Spc. Sarah Beckstrom and SSgt. Andrew Wolfe. Their work to hold this alleged terrorist accountable is an important step toward delivering justice,” Morrisey wrote.
“West Virginia will continue standing with their families, their fellow Guardsmen, and all who are grieving this loss. We are grateful for the rapid response by the Guard members on the scene and for the ongoing efforts of federal law enforcement and prosecutors. As this case moves forward, we will respect the legal process while remaining steadfast in our commitment to see justice done,” he continued.
Also on Tuesday, U.S. Senators Jim Justice and Shelley Moore Capito introduced legislation to honor Beckstrom and Wolfe.
Justice delivered a speech on the Senate floor. He said the state is hurting and needs prayers.
“West Virginia is really hurting. Really hurting. Our National Guard is really hurting, but nowhere close to how these families are really hurting,” Justice said.
“In every single way, I ask for your prayers,” he said.
In the speech, Justice wanted those in attendance to think of what the families of Beckstrom and Wolfe had to endure just hours before Thanksgiving.
“Think of the call that came right before Thanksgiving, of all times of the year. Think about that call,” he said.
Justice says he wants this moment to be a turning point for the country.
“Today the names are Sarah and Andrew. America, please, let’s not gloss over them. Let’s let them have the opportunity to be a change of who we are,” he said.