Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Judge Calls Hunger Strike Self-Inflicted as Death Penalty Sought

7/10/2026

36 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Judge Amit Mehta said Lakanwal’s condition is self-inflicted after refusing food and water.
The 29-year-old was hospitalized at George Washington University after refusing sustenance while awaiting trial.
Prosecutors seek the death penalty and have charged him with 17 counts, including first-degree murder.
A former Afghan special-forces soldier, he allegedly drove from Washington state to the capital.

1 of 1

Story summary

Judge Amit Mehta said Lakanwal’s condition is self-inflicted after refusing food and water.
The 29-year-old was hospitalized at George Washington University after refusing sustenance while awaiting trial.
Prosecutors seek the death penalty and have charged him with 17 counts, including first-degree murder.
A former Afghan special-forces soldier, he allegedly drove from Washington state to the capital.