Overview
- Prosecutors moved the case to U.S. District Court and filed additional counts, including first-degree premeditated murder while armed and two interstate firearms offenses.
- U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said the transfer permits a capital case review; Rahmanullah Lakanwal has pleaded not guilty and remains in custody.
- An FBI affidavit says Lakanwal obtained a stolen .357 Smith & Wesson on Nov. 14, bought ammunition the next day, and searched Google Maps for Washington and the White House before traveling.
- Court documents allege video captured the Nov. 26 attack at 17th and I Streets NW, where Spc. Sarah Beckstrom was fatally shot and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe was critically wounded before Guard members subdued the suspect.
- Lakanwal arrived in 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome after working with U.S. partner forces, investigators have not established a motive, and Wolfe has progressed to inpatient rehabilitation.