On November 26, 2025, a tragic shooting incident occurred blocks from the White House in Washington, DC. Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national, is accused of shooting two members of the West Virginia National Guard. This incident resulted in the death of 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom, while 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe remains in serious condition.
Background of Rahmanullah Lakanwal
Lakanwal immigrated to the United States from Afghanistan in 2021. Initially, he seemed hopeful and engaged in his new community in Bellingham, Washington. However, over time, he became increasingly isolated. Reports from a volunteer who worked with his family indicate a significant change in his behavior, with Lakanwal withdrawing from social interactions and struggling to adapt to life in the U.S.
Mental Health Concerns
The volunteer expressed concern over Lakanwal’s mental health, indicating that he might have been suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to his past military service in Afghanistan. Emails shared with NPR suggest that Lakanwal spent most of his time alone in a darkened bedroom and rarely communicated with his family.
- December 2023: Lakanwal begins taking long drives without informing his family.
- January 2024: Concerned volunteers reach out to professional refugee aid groups for assistance but receive limited responses.
- November 26, 2025: Shooting incident occurs near the White House.
Radicalization Claims
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that U.S. officials are investigating possible radicalization links while Lakanwal lived in the U.S. However, the volunteer refuted these claims, emphasizing Lakanwal’s struggles with cultural isolation rather than radical behavior.
Community Response
The incident has raised concerns about the resources available for Afghan refugees in the U.S. Many volunteers believe that families like the Lakanwals are left without adequate support after their initial resettlement.
The Aftermath
In response to the shooting, the Trump administration announced a freeze on refugee cases for Afghan nationals. Activists describe Lakanwal’s actions as an isolated incident, asserting that most Afghan immigrants are law-abiding citizens contributing positively to their communities. They emphasize the need to avoid generalizations about this population, which has faced numerous challenges.
Directors from organizations involved in refugee resettlement, such as World Relief and the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants, noted their commitment to supporting investigations related to Lakanwal’s case while respecting client confidentiality.
Conclusion
The attack highlights the ongoing crisis faced by Afghan refugees in the U.S. It underscores the challenges related to mental health, cultural adaptation, and the vital necessity for sustained support as they rebuild their lives in a new country.
