Overview
- Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, entered a not guilty plea by video from a hospital bed to first-degree murder, assault with intent to kill, and firearms charges, with his next court date set for January 14.
- Magistrate Judge Renee Raymond denied bond, saying no conditions could ensure public safety, as charging documents describe the suspect shouting "Allahu Akbar" and attempting to reload before being subdued.
- Prosecutors and a medical examiner’s report say Spc. Sarah Beckstrom was shot in the back of the head and died, while Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe was also shot in the head and remains hospitalized.
- West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey reported small signs of improvement for Wolfe, including a thumbs up response and toe movement, though his condition remains serious.
- Officials say Lakanwal arrived in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome, previously worked with a CIA partner force, was granted asylum in April 2025, lived in Washington state, and allegedly drove cross-country as investigators continue a terrorism-focused inquiry and federal immigration reviews.