Washington, D.C., November 28, 2025
A shocking shooting incident involving two members of the West Virginia National Guard occurred near the White House, resulting in one dead and another critically injured. The gunman, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, is a 29-year-old Afghan national who entered the U.S. as a refugee. This tragic event raises serious concerns regarding security and immigration policies, as it is being investigated as a potential act of international terrorism. The community reacts with fear and calls for enhanced safety measures.
Tragic Shooting of National Guardsmen Near White House
A targeted attack raises alarms and political tensions in the capital
Washington, D.C. – On November 26, 2025, the nation was shocked by a targeted shooting involving two members of the West Virginia National Guard near the White House, marking a grim day for our capital. The incident unfolded around 2:15 p.m. near the Farragut West Metro station, just two blocks from the White House. The assailant, identified as 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, approached the guardsmen and opened fire, striking them both in the head. Tragically, one of the guardsmen succumbed to his injuries, while the other remains in critical condition. As the investigation unfolds, authorities are treating this incident as a potential act of international terrorism.
The ramifications of this attack extend beyond the immediate tragedy, stirring intense political debates. President Trump has condemned the shooting as an “act of terror,” attributing blame for this tragedy to what he describes as the Biden administration’s lax vetting of Afghan refugees. In a decisive response, President Trump ordered the deployment of an additional 500 National Guard troops to Washington, D.C., illustrating a reaction influenced by a current “crime emergency.” This event underscores the need for addressing security in a nation where small businesses and local communities thrive amidst ever-changing political dynamics.
Background on the Incident
The suspected shooter, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, entered the U.S. in 2021 under the Operation Allies Welcome program, which facilitated the resettlement of Afghan individuals who assisted U.S. forces. In April 2025, he was granted asylum following his arrival. Lakanwal’s background includes service with CIA-backed units in Afghanistan, prompting a deep dive into his motives and connections, as officials have seized several electronic devices from his residence as part of the ongoing investigation.
The Impact of the Shooting
Witnesses in the bustling Farragut Square area described a scene of chaos, with the sound of gunfire prompting panic among bystanders. Immediate emergency responses were implemented for the injured soldiers, highlighting not only the bravery of the National Guardsmen but also the precarious situation faced by those serving in sensitive urban environments like Washington, D.C.
Increased Security Measures
In light of the shooting, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has opted to suspend Afghan immigration processing to reassess security measures, a decision sure to attract a range of reactions. This halt aims to ensure safety while navigating the delicate balance of upholding the spirit of American immigration policies and maintaining national security. The presence of National Guard personnel, who have been stationed in D.C. since August due to a declared crime emergency, emphasizes the ongoing concerns about urban safety and the challenges involved in managing security risks in democratic cities.
Political Ramifications and Community Responses
The shooting has amplified ongoing political discourse about immigration policy and national security. As President Trump amplifies calls for security reinforcement, voices advocating for responsible entrepreneurship and local businesses echo the need for an adaptable and responsive regulatory environment that encourages innovation while ensuring public safety. The recent events may serve as a catalyst for necessary discussions among local leaders and policymakers about fostering long-term solutions to enhance security and support our brave service members.
What Lies Ahead
As investigations into the attack progress, the community watches closely for answers about the shooter’s motives and potential connections to broader security threats. The levels of emotional turmoil experienced by the families of the injured guardsmen are profound, coupled with community fears for the safety of service members amid conflicting views on immigration and public safety. Active engagement and dialogue among citizens can potentially pave the way for understanding and fostering resilience in Rock Hill and across the nation.
Conclusion
This tragic event near the White House serves as a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding national security in our ever-evolving political landscape. The resilience of both our National Guardsmen and our local communities shines through even in the face of adversity. As we navigate these challenges, let us remain committed to supporting our local businesses and fostering economic growth in a manner that champions both safety and opportunity.
FAQ
What happened in Washington, D.C.?
On November 26, 2025, two members of the West Virginia National Guard were critically injured in a targeted shooting near the White House. The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, approached the guardsmen and opened fire. Both guardsmen were shot in the head; one succumbed to injuries, while the other remains hospitalized in critical condition. Lakanwal was also wounded during the confrontation and is currently under heavy guard at a local hospital. Authorities are investigating the shooting as a possible act of international terrorism.
Who is the suspect?
The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, is a 29-year-old Afghan national who entered the United States in 2021 under the Operation Allies Welcome program. He was granted asylum in April 2025. Prior to his arrival in the U.S., Lakanwal worked with CIA-backed units in Afghanistan. Investigators have seized various electronic devices from his residence as part of the ongoing investigation.
What is the current status of the injured guardsmen?
One of the guardsmen succumbed to injuries, while the other remains hospitalized in critical condition. The FBI, along with other federal and local agencies, is involved in the investigation to ensure accountability and prevent future incidents.
What actions have been taken in response to the incident?
In response to the attack, President Donald Trump ordered an additional 500 National Guard troops to be deployed to Washington, D.C., expanding the existing force aimed at reinforcing immigration and crime policies in Democratic-led cities. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services suspended Afghan immigration processing, citing the need for a security review.
What is the background of the National Guard deployment in D.C.?
National Guard troops have been stationed around D.C. since August, when President Trump declared a “crime emergency” and ordered the deployment to the city. The troops have been performing duties ranging from armed patrols to community beautification efforts.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | November 26, 2025 |
| Location | Near Farragut West Metro station, Washington, D.C. |
| Victims | Two members of the West Virginia National Guard |
| Suspect | Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29-year-old Afghan national |
| Suspect’s Background | Entered U.S. in 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome; granted asylum in April 2025; worked with CIA-backed units in Afghanistan |
| Response Actions | President Trump ordered additional 500 National Guard troops to D.C.; U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services suspended Afghan immigration processing |
| Investigation | FBI and other agencies investigating as possible act of international terrorism |
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