West Virginia Officials React to National Guard Shooting in Washington, D.C.

CHARLES TOWN, W.V. — West Virginia officials are mourning the fatal shooting of National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom and the critical injury of another guard member following an attack in Washington, D.C., allegedly carried out by an Afghan evacuee. The incident has prompted criticism from state leaders regarding U.S. immigration policies and the 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan.

The suspect, Rahmahullah Lakanwal, reportedly worked with a CIA-operated unit that fought the Taliban and assisted in evacuations during the fall of Kabul under then-President Joe Biden, according to authorities. The attack occurred on Thanksgiving Eve, leaving the West Virginia National Guard and the state in shock.

Josh Holstein, West Virginia Republican Party Chairman and state delegate from Boone County, described the event as a “horrible tragedy” for the state, emphasizing that such incidents are rare in West Virginia. Holstein noted the close-knit nature of the state, saying, “West Virginia is just one big small town,” where residents come together in times of both celebration and mourning.

Holstein expressed anger and devastation over the shooting, particularly after learning of Beckstrom’s death and the critical condition of Andrew Wolfe, another West Virginia National Guard member injured in the attack. He highlighted the bipartisan unity in the state following the incident, with leaders from both parties offering condolences and support.

“West Virginians of all political sides of the aisle came together and just mourned and shared a sense of deep grief, but not only grief, but gratitude for these folks, especially these two young folks,” Holstein said. He also reflected on the somber nature of the Thanksgiving holiday for the families affected.

The shooting has reignited debate over the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan and subsequent immigration policies. Holstein linked the attack to the chaos following the 2021 withdrawal, stating, “When you create chaos, chaos follows.”

The incident remains under investigation, and charges against the suspect are expected to escalate, according to legal experts. West Virginia officials continue to monitor the situation closely as the community grieves the loss and supports the injured.