National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom, 20, dies after ambush-style shooting near White House

Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, a 20-year-old National Guard member, has died following a shocking shooting in Washington, D.C., that also left fellow guardsman Andrew Wolfe, 24, critically injured.

The incident happened on Wednesday just blocks from the White House. Sarah Beckstrom and Andrew Wolfe, both newly sworn into the National Guard, were gunned down in what officials have described as an “ambush-style” attack.

The alleged shooter, identified as 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, reportedly opened fire without warning. According to U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, he used a .357 Smith and Wesson revolver in the attack, targeting the soldiers on the street.

“One guardsman is struck, goes down, and then the shooter leans over and strikes the guardsman again,” Pirro said. “Another is struck several times.”

Fellow guardsmen at the scene quickly responded, managing to subdue the attacker and prevent further harm. Wolfe remains in the hospital undergoing treatment.

President Donald Trump confirmed Beckstrom’s death on Thursday, offering emotional words in a public statement.

“She’s just passed away. She’s no longer with us,” he said. “She’s looking down at us right now. Her parents are with her. It’s just happened.”

Beckstrom was remembered by leaders and officials across the country as a shining example of patriotism.

“She was a young soldier and patriot with her entire life ahead of her,” wrote FBI Director Kash Patel on X (formerly Twitter). “Please join me in praying for Sarah’s family, friends, and fellow soldiers left behind.”

War Secretary Pete Hegseth added, “An American hero, at home with the LORD. May our nation kneel in prayer for her family.”

FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino also honored Beckstrom’s bravery, saying, “Her sacrifice will never be forgotten. She led a life of patriotism, service and sacrifice.”

Calls for justice

Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that her office would seek the death penalty for Lakanwal, calling him a “monster who should not have been in our country.”

The motive behind the shooting is still under investigation, but officials have emphasized the deliberate and violent nature of the attack.

The District of Columbia National Guard has confirmed Beckstrom’s death, and an internal review of security protocols has begun.

Across the U.S., messages of grief and support have poured in from citizens, military members, and public figures. On social media, many are sharing tributes with hashtags like #RIPSarahBeckstrom and #AmericanHero.

Though Beckstrom’s military career had just begun, her service and sacrifice are being honored nationwide. She’s being remembered not just for how she died—but for how she lived: with courage, honor, and love for her country.

Rest in peace, Specialist Sarah Beckstrom. Your nation salutes you.