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Suspect Pleads Not Guilty in D.C. National Guard Shooting

12/3/2025

Center

Lakanwal Pleads Not Guilty

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, suspect in the Washington, D.C. National Guard shooting, pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder and assault from his hospital bed.
The attack near the White House left Specialist Sarah Beckstrom dead and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe critically injured.
Lakanwal allegedly shouted "Allahu Akbar" during the shooting.
The Pentagon authorized all National Guard members in D.C. to carry weapons following the incident.
Investigations continue into motives and possible charges.

Left

Guard Troops Deployed

The Pentagon announced that all National Guard members in Washington, D.C., will carry live weapons and patrol with local police after an ambush that killed one guard.
About 2,375 troops will be deployed, including 500 additional personnel, in response to an urgent threat.
Oklahoma's National Guard will send about 160 members for a 90-day mission to support security in Washington, D.C.
Rahmanullah Lakanwal faces first-degree murder charges.

History

Historical Context

The War Powers Resolution of 1973 aimed to limit presidential military authority, emphasizing congressional oversight. In response to recent violent incidents, including the shooting of Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the Pentagon deployed 2,375 National Guard troops to Washington, D.C. This reflects a trend toward increased militarization of domestic security, raising concerns about civil liberties and the National Guard's role in law enforcement.

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Lakanwal Pleads Not Guilty

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, suspect in the Washington, D.C. National Guard shooting, pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder and assault from his hospital bed.
The attack near the White House left Specialist Sarah Beckstrom dead and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe critically injured.
Lakanwal allegedly shouted "Allahu Akbar" during the shooting.
The Pentagon authorized all National Guard members in D.C. to carry weapons following the incident.
Investigations continue into motives and possible charges.

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