Two American National Guardsmen are fighting for their lives after a horrific terror attack unfolded just yards from the White House in Washington DC.
Victims and the Attack
The soldiers have been identified as Andrew Wolfe, 24, and Sarah Backstrom, 20. Officials confirmed that both guardsmen were ambushed while on patrol on Wednesday. This patrol was part of an ongoing security effort in the nation's capital. Following the shooting, both soldiers required emergency surgery and remain in critical condition.
The Alleged Gunman in Custody
Law enforcement officials have named Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan soldier, as the alleged gunman. He is currently in custody. According to reports, Lakanwal was brought to the United States in 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome. This was the programme initiated by President Joe Biden to evacuate Afghans who had assisted US forces following the withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Community Reaction and Tributes
The local community has been shaken by the violence. Andrew Wolfe's former high school, Musselman High School, paid a moving tribute to him on social media. The post identified Wolfe as one of the victims and asked the community to keep him and his family in their thoughts, stating, 'Our Applemen community is deeply saddened... Andrew is currently in critical condition and undergoing surgery.' The message concluded with the school's motto, 'Once an Applemen, Always an Applemen.'
The investigation into the motive and circumstances of the attack continues as the two guardsmen receive medical care.
