Two National Guard members who were shot in Washington DC on Wednesday have been identified as Sarah Backstrom, aged 20, and Andrew Wolfe, aged 24. During a press conference on Thursday, US Attorney Jeanine Pirro disclosed that both victims, who are from West Virginia, are in critical condition. They had recently taken on duties under President Donald Trump’s directive to enhance security in the district and were sworn in just a day before the incident.
Pirro commended the two soldiers for their bravery, highlighting how they willingly risked their lives for strangers, emphasizing the increasing dangers faced by law enforcement officers in today’s society.
The suspect in the shooting has been named as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national who arrived in the US in September 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome, a program introduced by President Biden to protect vulnerable Afghans post the US military withdrawal from Afghanistan. The attack took place around 2:15 pm ET on Wednesday.
Former President Trump swiftly condemned the incident as an act of terror and a vicious assault. Following the attack, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services announced a halt on processing immigration cases for Afghan immigrants.
Lakanwal traveled from Bellingham, Washington, to Washington DC, where he opened fire on the National Guard using a .357 revolver. He was shot during the altercation and is currently hospitalized. Pirro stated that he will face charges related to the assault and possession of a firearm during a violent crime.
US Attorney General Pam Bondi informed Fox News that both victims had undergone surgery, with charges pending based on their recovery progress. Bondi did not disclose Sarah Backstrom’s name but did mention her as a young volunteer who had chosen to work in the capital during the Thanksgiving holiday.
Wolfe was also identified as one of the victims, with a spokesperson from Musselman High School confirming his involvement and critical condition following surgery. The community expressed deep sadness and requested thoughts and prayers for Wolfe, his family, and all affected individuals.
The incident has deeply affected the community, emphasizing the risks faced by those who serve in law enforcement roles, including National Guard members.