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A shocking shooting near the White House has left two National Guard members critically wounded. The suspect, identified as an Afghan national, has raised questions about immigration and security. This article explains what happened, who the suspect is, and what authorities are saying.
Shooting Incident: What Happened
On Wednesday, two National Guard members were wounded in an ambush shooting just blocks from the White House in Washington, DC. The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, was subdued at the scene and taken into custody. He is currently hospitalized. The two injured Guard members are in critical condition.
Who Is the Suspect?
Rahmanullah Lakanwal entered the United States in 2021 under a Biden-era program for Afghan nationals called Operation Allies Welcome. He was paroled into the country on September 8, 2021. His current immigration status is unclear.
Details of the Attack
Police and law enforcement sources say the suspect acted alone, ambushing the National Guard members as they patrolled near a mass transit station in downtown DC. The suspect had four rounds in his handgun and shot one Guard member, who collapsed immediately. He then took her weapon and used it to shoot the second Guard member. A third Guard member returned fire, ending the attack.
Suspect Background and Immigration Status
Lakanwal entered the US as part of a program for Afghan nationals after the US military withdrew from Afghanistan in 2021. Many Afghans were issued special immigrant visas or given temporary humanitarian status. Lakanwal’s exact status is still under investigation.
Authorities Response
The suspect is not cooperating with authorities. Police say he was a lone gunman who ambushed the Guard members. The incident has sparked debate over immigration policies and national security, with President Trump criticizing the suspect’s entry into the US.
What’s Next?
The investigation is ongoing. Authorities are examining the suspect’s background, immigration status, and motives. The two wounded Guard members are recovering, and the suspect remains hospitalized.