Afghan National Charged in Fatal Shooting of National Guard Member Near White House
An Afghan national, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, has been charged with first-degree murder following the fatal shooting of a National Guard member near the White House, prompting the U.S. to halt asylum decisions and suspend visa processing for Afghan nationals.
An Afghan national, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, has been charged with first-degree murder after allegedly ambushing two National Guard members near the White House, resulting in the death of Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and critical injuries to Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe.
Lakanwal, 29, entered the U.S. in 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome, a program initiated during President Biden's administration to assist Afghan allies. He was granted asylum in April 2025.
In response to the incident, President Donald Trump labeled the attack a "terrorist act" and announced a halt to all asylum decisions and the suspension of visa processing for Afghan passport holders.
The shooting occurred near the Farragut West metro station, approximately two blocks from the White House. Witnesses described a chaotic scene with multiple gunshots and emergency responders assisting the injured soldiers.
Authorities are investigating Lakanwal's background, including his previous service in a CIA-backed Afghan military unit. The motive for the attack remains under investigation.
The incident has intensified debates over immigration policies and the vetting processes for asylum seekers, particularly those from conflict zones.
Source
The New York TimesFact-checking
Fact-check the facts of the article using external sources and databases.