Story perspectives

Airman Injured, Colleague Killed in D.C. Shooting

12/7/2025

Summary

Wolfe's Recovery After Shooting

Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, is recovering from a head wound after a shooting in Washington, D.C., on November 26.
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey said Wolfe is "slowly healing" and will remain in acute care for two to three weeks.
Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, 20, Wolfe's colleague, died from her injuries.
The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder.

Summary

West Virginia Troops Deployment

West Virginia residents question deployment of National Guard troops to Washington, D.C. after the shooting of Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and the wounding of Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe.
Critics say troops perform non-security tasks like cleanup instead of their intended mission.
Governor Patrick Morrisey defends deployment, citing a tradition of military service in West Virginia.
Community members express outrage over the suspect's immigration status and deployment motivations.

History

Historical Context

The National Defense Authorization Act of 2001 expanded military roles domestically, allowing National Guard deployment for various missions. Since 9/11, over 6,000 West Virginia troops have been deployed. The recent shooting of Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom raises concerns about military effectiveness in civilian matters, reflecting ongoing debates about the implications of military engagement for community safety and security.

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Wolfe's Recovery After Shooting

Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, is recovering from a head wound after a shooting in Washington, D.C., on November 26.
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey said Wolfe is "slowly healing" and will remain in acute care for two to three weeks.
Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, 20, Wolfe's colleague, died from her injuries.
The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder.

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