The judge ordered Rahmullah Lakanwal detained without bond, calling the Department of Justice’s case in the shootings of two National Guard members "exceedingly strong." Lakanwal, 29, pleaded not guilty from a hospital bed and faces multiple federal charges, including first-degree murder and weapons counts; prosecutors have signaled the death penalty may be sought. The judge cited public safety concerns, video evidence, and the terror caused by the attack when ordering detention. Lakanwal remains in custody; his next hearing is Jan. 14, 2026.
Judge Orders Detention of National Guard Shooter, Calls DOJ Case “Exceedingly Strong”
A federal judge has ordered Rahmullah Lakanwal, 29, held without bond while he awaits trial on federal charges connected to last week’s shootings of two National Guard members near the Farragut West Metro Station. The judge said pretrial detention was necessary to protect the public and described the Department of Justice’s case as "exceedingly strong."
Charges and potential penalties
Lakanwal is charged with three counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and first-degree murder in the death of 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom. Authorities say 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe was critically wounded in the attack. The Attorney General has indicated the DOJ may seek the death penalty and that the defendant could also face life imprisonment and terrorism-related charges.
Initial appearance and courtroom account
At his initial appearance, Lakanwal participated from a hospital bed, pleaded not guilty to all charges, and was formally advised of the indictment through an interpreter. Court records show he was shot during the incident and hospitalized, which prosecutors said justified a delay beyond the usual 48-hour window for the first appearance. Defense counsel said Lakanwal appeared to be in pain and advised him not to speak.
Prosecution and defense arguments
Prosecutors argued the attack, which they say occurred around 2 p.m. in a busy area, endangered bystanders and constituted a "shocking crime" that supports pretrial detention. They told the court Lakanwal has no apparent ties to the city, making him a flight risk and a continuing danger. The judge noted video evidence that appears to show the defendant armed and waiting in daylight and said it seemed he "came across the country — 3,000 miles — armed, with a specific purpose in mind."
"The government's case is exceedingly strong," the judge said, and cited "the sheer terror that resulted that continues to animate because of his actions."
Defense attorneys raised concerns that public statements and press conferences by prosecutors could taint a future jury pool. The court ultimately ordered Lakanwal detained without bond. His next scheduled court date is Jan. 14, 2026.
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