FBI Launches Terror Probe After Two National Guard Troops Shot in Washington

Federal authorities have formally launched a terrorism investigation after two National Guard members were critically wounded in a shooting near the White House, with the suspect identified as an Afghan national who previously collaborated with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). The incident, described by officials as an ambush, has prompted a multi-state investigation and the deployment of additional troops to the capital.

The injured service members have been identified as Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, 24. According to U.S. authorities, both remain in critical condition. District of Columbia U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro stated that the two guardsmen had been sworn in fewer than 24 hours prior to the attack, which occurred roughly two blocks northwest of the White House.

Law enforcement officials have identified the alleged shooter as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal. According to U.S. Attorney Pirro, Lakanwal drove across the country to execute what she termed an “ambush-style” attack. Following the shooting, FBI Director Kash Patel announced that the bureau is treating the incident as an act of terrorism. Director Patel confirmed that agents have executed search warrants on multiple properties in Washington state and San Diego, seizing electronic devices including mobile phones and laptops in a “coast-to-coast investigation.”

Significant questions regarding the suspect’s background have emerged. CIA Director John Ratcliffe confirmed that prior to his arrival in the U.S. in 2021, Lakanwal had worked with the U.S. government, including the CIA, in Afghanistan. Officials noted that Lakanwal entered the United States through Operation Allies Welcome and was approved for asylum in April 2025. In response to the attack, President Trump has ordered the deployment of an additional 500 National Guard troops to Washington D.C. and indicated that his administration would re-examine the vetting of Afghans resettled in the U.S.

Investigative Outlook

This investigation now centers on the intersection of domestic security and intelligence vetting protocols. With the FBI classifying the shooting as a terrorist act, the focus will likely shift toward determining whether the suspect acted alone or had external radicalization support, particularly given the seizure of electronic evidence across multiple states. Furthermore, the suspect’s prior affiliation with the CIA introduces complex jurisdictional and classification challenges for federal prosecutors as they build their case. Lakanwal currently faces charges of assault with intent to kill while armed, though officials have indicated these may be upgraded depending on the medical outcomes of the victims. It is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.