One of the two National Guard members shot in a targeted ambush near the White House on Wednesday has died, President Donald Trump confirmed Thursday evening.
Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, of Webster Springs, West Virginia, succumbed to her injuries just hours before the president’s Thanksgiving call with U.S. troops.
Her death stunned both her family and the Guard community, who described her as dedicated, respected, and full of promise.
Trump honored her during his remarks, calling her “a magnificent person” who had served with distinction since joining the Guard in June 2023. “She’s no longer with us,” he said. “She’s looking down at us right now.” Beckstrom had been deployed to Washington, D.C., as part of the Safe and Beautiful Mission, which supports public safety work across the capital.
Her colleague, Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, remains hospitalized in critical condition. According to officials, he continues to fight for his life as doctors work to stabilize him after the attack.
The West Virginia National Guard reported that Beckstrom and Wolfe were ambushed around 2:15 p.m. Wednesday, less than a day after being deputized for presence patrols. The suspected gunman, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national who previously worked with U.S. forces, was wounded by authorities and taken into custody. He now faces a first-degree murder charge.
Both soldiers were deployed to D.C. under a federal order issued in August as part of a broader anti-crime initiative. Their units praised them for professionalism and commitment, noting that they served quietly and without complaint.
Beckstrom enlisted in June 2023 and quickly earned a reputation for optimism and diligence within the 863rd Military Police Company. Wolfe, who joined in 2019, serves with the 167th Airlift Wing’s Force Support Squadron.
Beckstrom’s father, Gary Beckstrom, shared a brief, emotional tribute online, writing, “My baby girl has passed to glory.” Wolfe’s family has asked for privacy and prayers as he continues treatment.
The attack has renewed discussions about the risks faced by Guard members serving stateside. Beckstrom’s death, at just twenty years old, stands as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by those who protect their communities, both at home and abroad.
