Unarmed National Guardsman used a pocket knife to stop DC shooting suspect: Report

WASHINGTON, DC: Amid the Wednesday's shooting in Washington, DC, in which two National Guardsmen were critically injured, reports have emerged detailing the heroics of an unarmed National Guardsman who rushed toward the shooting scene just blocks from the White House and used a pocket knife to bring down the suspect accused of the attack.

The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, is now in custody. According to Fox News Digital, Lakanwal entered the U.S. legally in 2021 under what was known as Operation Allies Welcome during the Afghanistan withdrawal, via humanitarian parole.

Guardsman’s courageous intervention

A National Guard major, making his rounds to check in with troops posted nearby, reportedly heard gunfire coming from two blocks away — near 17th and I Streets NW, close to the White House. Although unarmed, the major took cover behind a car and found he had nothing with which to defend himself except a small pocket knife, according to initial reports.

When Lakanwal paused to reload his .357 Magnum-caliber Smith & Wesson revolver, the major leapt from cover, stabbed the suspect multiple times and forced him to the ground. The swift, courageous act prevented further violence, possibly saving lives.

Meanwhile, another National Guardsman who had been nearby drew his pistol, shot Lakanwal in the buttocks and leg, and, together with the major, subdued the suspect until arrest.

Suspect drove across country to carry out attack

Authorities believe Lakanwal drove across the country from his home in Bellingham, Washington — a nearly 3,000-mile, 40-hour journey — before arriving in DC on Wednesday afternoon. He was reportedly lying in wait near a corner by the entrance to Farragut West Metro station.

DC Mayor Muriel Bowser described the attack as a “targeted act.” Investigations are ongoing as federal and local law enforcement agencies sift through evidence surrounding the shooting and the suspect’s motives.

Guardsman Sarah Beckstrom died while Andrew Wolfe fought for life

The two wounded guardsmen were later identified as 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom and 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe, both members of the West Virginia National Guard. Beckstrom tragically died later on Wednesday, while Wolfe was listed in very critical condition. President Donald Trump offered condolences, calling Beckstrom a “highly respected, young, magnificent person.”

Authorities are reviewing the chain of events, and supporters have asked for privacy for the guardsmen’s families as investigations continue.