Trump Invites Families of West Virginia National Guard Members Shot in Washington to the White House

President Trump invited the families of two West Virginia National Guard members shot in Washington, D.C., to the White House after speaking with distraught parents. Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, was killed and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains critically ill. A 29-year-old Afghan national has been charged in the attack, which led the administration to pause some asylum processing and temporary Afghan visa issuance. Vigils were held across West Virginia as communities mourned and praised the service members' character and sacrifice.

07:53 AM, 12/01/2025Politics

Trump Invites Families of West Virginia National Guard Members Shot in Washington to the White House

President Donald Trump said on Sunday that he has invited the families of two West Virginia National Guard members shot in Washington, D.C., to visit the White House. He told reporters he had spoken with the parents of one victim and described them as 'devastated.'

US Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, was killed in the Wednesday shooting. US Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains hospitalized in critical condition. Vigils across West Virginia have been held to honor both service members.

Trump said he discussed arranging a White House visit for the parents of both guardsmen. He told reporters: 'When you're ready, because that's a tough thing, come to the White House. We're going to honor Sarah. And likewise with Andrew, recover or not.'

Community Mourns

Mourners gathered over the weekend at Webster County High School in West Virginia to remember Beckstrom. Jarrod Hankins, principal of Beckstrom's high school, said she was the kind of student teachers hoped for, praising her 'quiet strength, contagious smile and positive energy' and saying she was always willing to help others.

Funeral arrangements for Beckstrom are still being finalized.

Investigation and Charges

Authorities have charged a 29-year-old Afghan national with one count of first-degree murder and two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed in connection with the attack. The incident prompted the administration to suspend some asylum processing and temporarily halt the issuance of visas to holders of Afghan passports.

About the Service Members

Wolfe, a Martinsburg native and a 2019 graduate of Musselman High School, began his service in February 2019. West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey said Wolfe is 'fighting for his life' as he remains hospitalized and receives treatment. Former Attorney General Pam Bondi said she intends to meet with Wolfe's family.

Beckstrom, from Summersville, graduated from Webster County High School in June 2023 and enlisted soon after. The West Virginia National Guard described her as a dedicated military police officer who served with distinction.

'She had a lot of kindness and she certainly had courage,' Governor Morrisey said at a vigil. 'Though her life lasted far too short, she has left a mark that's going to last forever.'

The investigation remains active, and local and national officials have expressed condolences to the families and communities affected.