Story perspectives

Afghan Refugee Charged with Murder, Attempted Murder

7/11/2026

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Lakanwal Charged

Rahmanullah Lakanwal arrived in the United States in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome, the Afghan resettlement program.
A Washington, D.C. hospital admitted him after he refused food and water while in federal custody, keeping him awaiting trial.
He is charged with killing Sarah Beckstrom and attempting to kill Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro called the attack a major offense against the United States.

Right

Lakanwal Hospitalized

President Donald Trump awarded Purple Hearts to Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe after the November 26 shooting.
Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal was hospitalized in Washington, D.C. after refusing food and water while in federal custody.
U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta called Lakanwal’s condition dire and self-inflicted during an emergency hearing.
Prosecutors, who may seek death penalty, were granted access to Lakanwal’s medical records during hospitalization.

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Lakanwal Charged

Rahmanullah Lakanwal arrived in the United States in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome, the Afghan resettlement program.
A Washington, D.C. hospital admitted him after he refused food and water while in federal custody, keeping him awaiting trial.
He is charged with killing Sarah Beckstrom and attempting to kill Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro called the attack a major offense against the United States.

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