One of the two National Guardsmen shot Wednesday near the White House remains in critical condition, according to comments Saturday by Rep. Riley Moore (R‑WV). The service member, identified as 24‑year‑old Andrew Wolfe, is fighting for his life, Moore said after speaking with Wolfe’s family.
Rep. Moore described Wolfe’s family as deeply committed to public service: his father serves as a deputy sheriff in a neighboring county, and Wolfe had followed that path by enlisting in the West Virginia National Guard. “Andy is hanging on and he is a fighter,” Moore said, urging the public to keep Wolfe and his family in their prayers. He added that Wolfe’s parents — devout believers in the power of prayer — are asking for support from “prayer warriors” across the country.
West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey also weighed in, calling Wolfe’s condition “very serious” as the family and state await further developments.
Authorities confirmed that the other Guardsman shot in the same attack, 20‑year‑old Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, died from her injuries. The suspected shooter, 29‑year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal — an Afghan national admitted to the United States under the 2021 evacuation program — is in custody. Prosecutors plan to seek the death penalty, according to remarks by Pam Bondi.
Wolfe and Beckstrom were reportedly sworn into service less than 24 hours before they were ambushed at the Farragut West Metro station around 2:15 p.m. Eastern Time. The shooting shocked the nation, triggering high-level reactions and renewed debate over immigration enforcement.
As the investigation continues, advocates, family members, and public officials remain united in their call for vigilance and solidarity — and above all, for prayers for Wolfe’s recovery and justice for Beckstrom.
