Federal officials have identified 29‑year‑old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, linked to CIA operations, as the shooter in a November 26 gun attack near Washington, D.C., with two wounded National Guard officers in critical condition.
Wounded National Guard Officers in Critical Condition
In the shooting that took place on Wednesday, November 26 in central Washington, two National Guard officers—20‑year‑old Sarah Beckstream and 24‑year‑old Andrew Wolfe—were wounded and required surgery. Both had recently begun service in the National Guard and were sworn in the day before the attack.
Perpetrator Charged with Firearm Attacks
Authorities believe the shooter is 29‑year‑old Rahmanullah Lakanwal. He has been charged with three counts of armed assault with intent to kill. If the wounded officers die, Lakanwal could face a first‑degree murder charge.
Perpetrator’s Cooperation with CIA
Lakanwal arrived in the United States in September 2021 under the Operation Allies Welcome program, which sponsors U.S. government‑agency employees. CIA Director John Ratcliffe confirmed that Lakanwal worked with U.S. military units supported by the CIA during the Afghanistan operation and had served as a partner unit member in Kandahar, ending shortly after the chaotic U.S. evacuation.
Suspect Traveled Across Country Before Shooting
District Attorney Jeanine Pirro told a press conference that Lakanwal had returned to Bellingham, Washington with his wife and children, and that he had “traveled across the country” to reach Washington before the shooting. Investigators have not yet determined the motive.
