Two National Guard members who were shot in Washington DC on Wednesday have been identified as Sarah Backstrom, 20, and Andrew Wolfe, 24. Both soldiers from West Virginia were serving under President Donald Trump’s executive order to enhance security in the district. They were sworn in less than 24 hours before the shooting incident and are currently in critical condition, according to US Attorney Jeanine Pirro.
The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, is an Afghan national who arrived in the US in September 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome. The attack took place at approximately 2:15 pm ET on Wednesday. President Trump condemned the attack as an “act of terror” and a “heinous assault” and US Citizenship and Immigration Services halted processing immigration cases for Afghan immigrants indefinitely pending further review.
Lakanwal traveled from Bellingham, Washington, to Washington DC before opening fire on the National Guard with a .357 revolver. He was wounded and is currently hospitalized. Pirro stated that he will face charges of assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.
US Attorney General Pam Bondi reported that both victims had undergone surgery, and charges against the suspect would be based on their prognosis. Bondi did not disclose Backstrom’s name but mentioned that she was a young woman who volunteered during the Thanksgiving holiday. Wolfe was identified by a spokesperson from Musselman High School, stating that he is in critical condition and undergoing surgery.
The community expressed deep sadness over Wolfe’s involvement in the shooting, with messages of support for his recovery. The incident has sparked concern and prayers for the victims and their families.
