Afghan National Rahmanullah Lakanwal Identified as Suspect in DC National Guardsmen Shooting

WASHINGTON, D.C. — November 27, 2025 — Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, has been identified by law enforcement sources as the suspect in the shooting of two National Guard members near the White House on November 26, 2025, the day before Thanksgiving. Both Guardsmen were reported to be in critical condition following the incident, which is being investigated as a potential act of international terrorism.

Lakanwal was taken into custody on Wednesday after the shooting. Officials said he had legally entered the United States in 2021 under humanitarian parole as part of the Biden administration’s Operation Allies Welcome program. This initiative was established following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan and the Taliban’s takeover, aiming to resettle vulnerable Afghans, including those who had assisted U.S. troops.

According to federal authorities, Lakanwal had his asylum application approved during the Trump administration. Intelligence sources indicated that he had prior connections with U.S. government entities, including the CIA, due to his role as a member of a partner force in Kandahar, Afghanistan. The CIA’s involvement with Lakanwal reportedly ended shortly after the evacuation from Afghanistan.

Lakanwal had been residing in Bellingham, Washington, with his wife and five children before traveling approximately 2,500 miles to Washington, D.C., where the shooting occurred. Video reviewed by investigators shows the suspect approaching and immediately opening fire, according to statements from D.C. police officials.

The shooting has prompted a federal investigation, with authorities examining the suspect’s background and potential motives. The incident has also raised questions about immigrant vetting processes and the handling of Afghan nationals brought to the U.S. under humanitarian programs.

Officials continue to monitor the condition of the injured National Guard members and are pursuing leads related to the case. Further details have not been released as the investigation remains active.