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DC to Pair National Guard with Local Police for Joint High-Visibility Patrols After Guard Members Are Shot

Washington, DC, plans to run joint, high-visibility patrols pairing National Guard troops with local police, announced about 48 hours after two Guard members were shot. The move would change how Guard forces have been used in the capital since their August deployment and follows reports that an additional 500 Guard personnel will be sent. The shooting left Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, dead and another Guard member critically wounded; the suspect faces first-degree murder charges. Officials say the situation remains fluid as they review operational details.

05:34 AM, 11/29/2025Security
DC to Pair National Guard with Local Police for Joint High-Visibility Patrols After Guard Members Are Shot

Washington, DC, plans to pair National Guard troops with local police officers on high-visibility, joint patrols — a move announced roughly 48 hours after two Guard members were shot in the city.

An email to district leadership said,

"Officers will conduct high-visibility patrols with the National Guard and provide assistance as needed."
The message described the plan as "fluid," and officials said adjustments could still be made as circumstances evolve.

If implemented, the change would mark a departure from how Guard forces have been used in the capital since their deployment in August. City leaders and law enforcement had previously credited the additional forces with freeing local officers to focus on other policing priorities.

About 2,000 National Guard members are currently deployed to the District as part of what the administration calls the "Safe and Beautiful Task Force." Guard personnel do not receive the same training as city police officers. Defense officials said an additional 500 Guard troops would be sent to the capital.

An MPD spokesperson said,

"Law enforcement agencies across Washington, DC, including the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), are working in close coordination with the National Guard to ensure the safety of our community,"
and added, "MPD does not comment on staffing, tactics, or operations."

The patrol plan follows a shooting that left Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, dead after being wounded, and critically injured another West Virginia National Guard member, Andrew Wolfe. Authorities have charged Rahmanullah Lakanwal with first-degree murder in connection with the attack.

Officials in West Virginia honored the two Guard members. Governor Patrick Morrisey asked residents to observe a moment of silence or prayer and ordered flags flown at half-staff in recognition of Beckstrom's death. Morrisey praised their "courage and commitment to duty," saying they represented the best of the state.

City and federal officials say the situation remains under review as they balance force posture, public safety, and the distinct roles and training of Guard personnel and municipal police.

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