CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The recent shooting of National Guard members from West Virginia in Washington, D.C., has united communities in a wave of support and prayer, as one servicemember continues to fight for his life. Twenty-four-year-old U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe was seriously injured during the attack, while his comrade, U.S. Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, tragically lost her life.
Governor Patrick Morrisey announced on Monday that Wolfe, despite being in serious condition, has shown positive signs of recovery, including being responsive to questions and moving his toes. Morrisey encouraged the public to pray for Wolfe and respect the family's privacy regarding funeral arrangements for Beckstrom.
The shooting occurred while the two guardsmen were deployed in D.C. as part of a federal crime-fighting initiative spearheaded by former President Donald Trump. Local authorities are currently investigating the incident, seeking to understand the motive behind the attack which left Beckstrom dead and Wolfe critically injured.
The alleged shooter, 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, faces charges including first-degree murder and assault and remains hospitalized following the confrontation.
The traumatic event triggered immediate reactions from various quarters, with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reporting that Trump requested the deployment of additional National Guard troops in response to the incident. Currently, nearly 2,200 troops are deployed in Washington, D.C., working to maintain safety and order, while support for the affected service members remains a community priority.
As investigations continue, communities across West Virginia rally to uplift the families of the National Guard members and honor their service amidst this crisis.
