Washington, D.C., November 28, 2025
The FBI is examining a potential San Diego connection in the shooting of two National Guard members in Washington, D.C. The suspect, 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national, faces multiple felony charges. The investigation involves a coast-to-coast effort with search warrants executed in Washington and San Diego. The injured members are in critical condition as the FBI treats the shooting as an act of terrorism. The incident has sparked discussions on the vetting process for Afghan refugees.
Washington, D.C.
FBI Investigates San Diego Connection in D.C. Shooting of National Guard Members
The FBI is investigating a potential link between San Diego and the suspect accused of shooting two members of the West Virginia National Guard in Washington, D.C. on November 26, 2025. FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that search warrants were executed at the suspect’s residence in Bellingham, Washington, and interviews were conducted in San Diego as part of the ongoing investigation. The FBI is analyzing electronic devices seized during these searches and continues to interview individuals associated with the suspect. The investigation is being conducted as a “coast-to-coast” effort, with authorities committed to pursuing all leads to ensure justice is served.
The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, is an Afghan national who entered the United States in September 2021 under the Operation Allies Welcome program, which provided entry visas to Afghans who had worked for the U.S. government. Prior to his arrival in the U.S., Lakanwal worked with U.S. forces in Afghanistan, including CIA-backed military units in the Kandahar region. The FBI is fully investigating this aspect of his background, including any known associates both overseas and within the United States. Lakanwal is currently under arrest and receiving medical treatment at a hospital. He faces multiple felony charges, including assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. If the National Guard members do not survive, charges could be increased to first-degree murder.
Current Conditions of the Injured National Guard Members
The two National Guard members, Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe and Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, were critically injured in the shooting near the White House. They are currently receiving medical care, and their conditions remain critical. The FBI is treating the attack as an act of terrorism and is working closely with the D.C. United States Attorney’s Office to ensure a thorough investigation.
Government Response and Public Concern
In response to the shooting, President Trump ordered 500 additional National Guard troops to Washington, D.C. The incident has raised concerns about the vetting process for Afghan refugees entering the United States. The Trump administration has suspended processing all immigration requests from Afghans, according to reports. However, leaders of San Diego-based nonprofits that assist Afghan allies have emphasized that the Afghan community should not be scapegoated due to the actions of one individual. They stress that Afghan wartime allies risked their lives for U.S. missions, and this single act does not reflect Afghan values or the experiences of the tens of thousands of Afghans building safe, productive lives in the U.S.
Investigation Details
The investigation is ongoing, and efforts are being made to trace the suspect’s connections and motivations. The FBI continues to pursue all leads, conducting interviews across states and analyzing evidence gathered from the suspect’s electronic devices. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the case to come forward.
Key Takeaways
The circumstances surrounding the shooting have drawn attention not only due to the severity of the act but also in relation to the broader discussions on immigration policy and security measures for individuals entering the U.S. The ongoing investigation emphasizes the responsibility of agencies to protect the public while ensuring justice is served for the injured members of the National Guard.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the FBI investigating in relation to the D.C. shooting?
The FBI is investigating a potential connection between San Diego and the suspect accused of shooting two members of the West Virginia National Guard in Washington, D.C. on November 26, 2025. Search warrants were executed at the suspect’s residence in Bellingham, Washington, and interviews were conducted in San Diego as part of the ongoing investigation. The FBI is analyzing electronic devices seized during these searches and continues to interview individuals associated with the suspect. The investigation is being conducted as a “coast-to-coast” effort, with authorities committed to pursuing all leads to ensure justice is served.
Who is the suspect in the D.C. shooting?
The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, is an Afghan national who entered the United States in September 2021 under the Operation Allies Welcome program, which provided entry visas to Afghans who had worked for the U.S. government. Prior to his arrival in the U.S., Lakanwal worked with U.S. forces in Afghanistan, including CIA-backed military units in the Kandahar region. The FBI is fully investigating this aspect of his background, including any known associates both overseas and within the United States. Lakanwal is currently under arrest and receiving medical treatment at a hospital. He faces multiple felony charges, including assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. If the National Guard members do not survive, charges could be increased to first-degree murder.
What are the current conditions of the injured National Guard members?
The two National Guard members, Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe and Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, were critically injured in the shooting near the White House. They are currently receiving medical care, and their conditions remain critical. The FBI is treating the attack as an act of terrorism and is working closely with the D.C. United States Attorney’s Office to ensure a thorough investigation. The agency has executed multiple search warrants across the country, including at the suspect’s last known residence in Washington state, and is interviewing individuals associated with the suspect in San Diego. The FBI is committed to pursuing all leads to bring those responsible for this act of violence to justice.
What actions have been taken in response to the shooting?
In response to the shooting, President Trump ordered 500 additional National Guard troops to Washington, D.C. The incident has raised concerns about the vetting process for Afghan refugees entering the United States. The Trump administration has suspended processing all immigration requests from Afghans, according to reports. However, leaders of San Diego-based nonprofits that assist Afghan allies have emphasized that the Afghan community should not be scapegoated due to the actions of one individual. They stress that Afghan wartime allies risked their lives for U.S. missions, and this single act does not reflect Afghan values or the experiences of the tens of thousands of Afghans building safe, productive lives in the U.S.
How can the public assist in the investigation?
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information related to the case to come forward. The FBI continues to work diligently to uncover all details surrounding the shooting and to ensure the safety and security of the public.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident | Shooting of two National Guard members in Washington, D.C. on November 26, 2025 |
| Suspect | Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29-year-old Afghan national |
| Suspect’s Background | Entered U.S. in September 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome; worked with U.S. forces in Afghanistan, including CIA-backed units in Kandahar |
| Charges | Assault with intent to kill while armed; possession of a firearm during a crime of violence; potential for first-degree murder charges if victims do not survive |
| Victims | Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe and Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, both critically injured |
| Investigation | Ongoing “coast-to-coast” investigation; search warrants executed in Washington state and San Diego; electronic devices seized and analyzed |
| Response | President Trump ordered 500 additional National Guard troops to Washington, D.C.; suspension of processing all immigration requests from Afghans; emphasis on not scapegoating Afghan community |
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