Washington, D.C.: Authorities have identified the suspect involved in the shooting of two National Guard members in the U.S. capital. The accused has been named as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, an Afghan national who arrived in the United States in 2021 under the Operation Allies Welcome resettlement program.
Investigated as a Possible Terror Attack
According to a CNN report citing Justice Department sources, the incident is being investigated as a potential act of terrorism.
Officials stated that at the time of the attack, Lakanwal was living in the United States unlawfully, as his visa had expired.
His immigration status and the circumstances of his entry into the U.S. have already triggered significant political debate in the aftermath of the shooting.
How the Attack Unfolded
Law enforcement sources revealed that the shooting occurred near the Farragut West Metro Station at around 2:15 p.m. local time. Lakanwal allegedly approached the area on foot and opened fire at extremely close range.
He first shot a female National Guard member in the chest and then in the head. He subsequently turned his weapon on a second Guard member. A third Guard member present at the scene intervened and subdued the suspect.
Both injured National Guard personnel were rushed to the hospital in critical condition and continue to remain in extremely serious condition.
Background of the Suspect
Lakanwal arrived in the U.S. as part of the Biden administration’s Afghan resettlement initiative following the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan. He was initially resettled in Bellingham, Washington.
Authorities have yet to determine the motive behind the shooting. Police currently believe he acted alone. During the confrontation with the third Guard member, Lakanwal was shot four times.
Investigation Underway
Investigators are now examining the suspect’s movements, associations, and personal history. They are working to determine whether the attack was spontaneous or premeditated.
A photograph circulating on social media appears to show Lakanwal lying on the ground without clothing and severely injured. However, police have not confirmed the authenticity of this image.
Authorities have urged the public to refrain from sharing unverified visuals or information related to the incident.
With both the suspect and the injured Guard members still hospitalized, investigators continue to piece together the motive and circumstances behind the attack. Security measures have been intensified across the capital.
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