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The National Guard Shooting Update emerged Monday as West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey reported encouraging signs from Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe. The 24-year-old was shot in a brazen daytime attack near the White House. He gave a thumbs-up to a nurse and wiggled his toes, showing he could hear questions.
Gov. Morrisey said Wolfe’s family has asked the public to pray for him. “Andrew is still fighting for his life. He needs prayers,” Morrisey emphasized. Meanwhile, Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, 20, another service member, died in the shooting.
Details of the Attack
Beckstrom and Wolfe faced gunfire Wednesday while deployed under President Donald Trump’s plan to federalize D.C. policing for crime prevention. Investigators continue probing motives behind the attack. Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, faces one count of first-degree murder and two counts of assault. He sustained injuries during the confrontation and remains hospitalized. Authorities have not set a court date.
The shooting prompted immediate federal action. Officials halted asylum decisions and paused issuing Afghan passport visas. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Trump authorized sending 500 additional National Guard members to Washington. Gov. Morrisey confirmed he has not received requests to deploy more West Virginia troops.
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Deployment and Community Support
Currently, nearly 2,200 troops operate under the joint task force in D.C. Over 300 West Virginia National Guard members deployed in August. In mid-November, 170 volunteers extended their deployment through December, while others returned home. Morrisey stressed, “Our focus is on the well-being of the 170 service members.” He added that authorities support families and ensure prayers are offered.
Tribute and Memorials
President Trump paid tribute to Beckstrom and Wolfe Monday during a White House Christmas party. The event marked the first holiday gathering of the year. Meanwhile, memorials near Farragut West Station continue to honor the fallen and injured troops. The National Guard Shooting Update highlights the risks faced by service members on domestic deployments and underscores ongoing support from families, communities, and federal authorities.
