Emails Reveal Mental Health Struggles of National Guard Shooting Suspect

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the suspect in the recent shooting of two West Virginia National Guard members in Washington, D.C., had been grappling with significant mental health issues, according to emails obtained by the Associated Press. These communications reveal that Lakanwal experienced extended periods of isolation and erratic behavior since his arrival in the United States in 2021.

The emails detail concerns about Lakanwal's deteriorating mental state, noting his inability to maintain employment and his oscillation between prolonged seclusion and impulsive, weeks-long cross-country trips. A community advocate, alarmed by his conduct, reached out to a refugee organization, fearing he was becoming suicidal. However, there were no indications that Lakanwal posed a threat to others.

The shooting resulted in the death of 20-year-old Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and left 24-year-old Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe in critical condition. Lakanwal, 29, has been charged with first-degree murder and remains hospitalized after being shot during the incident.

Prior to his resettlement in Bellingham, Washington, Lakanwal served in a CIA-backed Afghan army unit known as a Zero Unit. He entered the U.S. through Operation Allies Welcome, a program initiated to evacuate and resettle Afghans who had worked alongside U.S. forces. Despite relocating with his wife and five children, Lakanwal struggled to assimilate, often isolating himself from his family and community.

The emails also describe periods where Lakanwal would attempt to re-engage with support services, only to lapse into manic episodes characterized by sudden, extensive travel. In response to these concerns, the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants visited Bellingham in March 2024 to offer assistance.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances leading up to the attack, focusing on Lakanwal's mental health history and his challenges in adjusting to life in the United States.