In a rare and alarming event, two members of the National Guard were shot in Washington, D.C., allegedly by a 29-year-old Afghan national. Authorities revealed that the shooting occurred shortly before Thanksgiving while the troops were engaged in their duties. Both soldiers are currently hospitalized in critical condition, and there’s ongoing confusion regarding their status amidst conflicting reports.
The FBI and local officials labeled the incident a 'targeted shooting.' Eyewitness accounts suggest the assailant opened fire immediately upon approaching the Guard members. In a swift response, the troops managed to subdue the shooter, who was later taken into custody. At this time, investigators are still working to understand the suspect's motive, and the shooter’s wounds are not believed to be life-threatening.
Known now as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the suspect had relocated to the U.S. in September 2021 through the Operation Allies Welcome program, which facilitated the entry of Afghan refugees following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. He had been living with his family in Washington state prior to the incident, and authorities are looking into how he traveled to D.C.
In response to this incident, President Trump announced an increase in the National Guard presence in Washington, D.C., to bolster security. This situation underscores ongoing concerns about safety and security in the nation’s capital.
The FBI and local officials labeled the incident a 'targeted shooting.' Eyewitness accounts suggest the assailant opened fire immediately upon approaching the Guard members. In a swift response, the troops managed to subdue the shooter, who was later taken into custody. At this time, investigators are still working to understand the suspect's motive, and the shooter’s wounds are not believed to be life-threatening.
Known now as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the suspect had relocated to the U.S. in September 2021 through the Operation Allies Welcome program, which facilitated the entry of Afghan refugees following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. He had been living with his family in Washington state prior to the incident, and authorities are looking into how he traveled to D.C.
In response to this incident, President Trump announced an increase in the National Guard presence in Washington, D.C., to bolster security. This situation underscores ongoing concerns about safety and security in the nation’s capital.
