West Virginia Guard Soldier Killed Near White House — Remembered for a 'Heart of Gold'

Sarah Beckstrom, 20, a military police soldier in the West Virginia National Guard, died after being wounded in a shooting near the White House. Friends, family and officials have described her as compassionate and dedicated, recalling her ambition to pursue a career with the FBI and her work serving people with behavioral health needs.

Shooting and charges

The suspected shooter, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national who reportedly worked with U.S. forces during the war in Afghanistan, has been charged with first-degree murder, U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro announced. Authorities previously charged him with multiple counts, including assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.

Another service member injured in the incident, U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, was reported in very serious condition.

Remembered by family and friends

Adam Carr, Beckstrom's 20-year-old former boyfriend, said Beckstrom hoped her service in military police would 'get her foot in the door for a career in the FBI and help her in the long run.' The pair had dated for six years and reportedly remained on good terms after a recent breakup.

'She was one of the most forgiving people I've ever met,' Carr said. 'She doesn't even have to know you and she'll do anything for you.'

Photos shared by friends show Beckstrom enjoying the outdoors — hunting, camping and spending time with a family dog — and Carr said she was especially moved by visits to the monuments and museums of Washington, D.C., including the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum.

Service and community work

Beckstrom enlisted in the West Virginia National Guard on June 26, 2023, and was assigned to the 863rd Military Police Company. She deployed to Washington, D.C., in August as part of a federal operation referred to as the 'D.C. Safe and Beautiful Mission.' Carr said she initially struggled with homesickness but later bonded with fellow troops who nicknamed her 'Becky' and chose to remain in the district rather than return home early.

Before her deployment, Beckstrom worked at a community health center that serves people with mental illness and substance use disorders. Marcie Vaughan, CEO of the center, noted that Beckstrom's decision to both enlist and work in behavioral health reflected a strong commitment to helping others.

Officials and community react

West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey posted that 'Sarah served with courage, extraordinary resolve, and an unwavering sense of duty to her state and to her nation.' Col. Larry Doane, commander of the joint task force for the D.C. National Guard, called her a 'hero' and mourned the Guard's devastating loss.

Beckstrom's father, Gary Beckstrom, posted that 'My baby girl has passed to glory' and told reporters he had been with her as she fought for her life. In her hometown of Summersville, friends and neighbors expressed deep grief; Eva Carr, the mother of Adam Carr, said Beckstrom was 'like a daughter' and had 'a heart of gold.'

The investigation and legal proceedings are ongoing as authorities continue to process the case and care for the wounded.