Additional Coverage:
- Afghan national accused in DC National Guard shooting pleads not guilty, prosecutors may seek death penalty (foxnews.com)
Afghan National Pleads Not Guilty in DC National Guard Shooting
Washington D.C. – Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the 29-year-old Afghan national accused of shooting two National Guard members in November, has entered a plea of not guilty. The incident resulted in the death of West Virginia National Guard Army Spc.
Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and critically injured U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt.
Andrew Wolfe, 24, who remains hospitalized.
During a Wednesday hearing, federal prosecutors informed Judge Amit Mehta that the possibility of pursuing the death penalty remains under consideration, despite the current charges not being death penalty-eligible. Prosecutors stated they are exploring all potential avenues, including a superseding indictment that could introduce charges warranting the death penalty. Judge Mehta requested a timely decision, with prosecutors aiming for an answer by the next status conference on May 6.
Lakanwal, who appeared in court in an orange prison jumpsuit and a white prayer shawl, arrived in a wheelchair. This is believed to be due to injuries he sustained when he was shot during the alleged attack and subsequently hospitalized for several weeks.
He was initially charged with first-degree murder while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, and two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence under D.C. Code. Additional federal charges were later filed, including transporting a firearm in interstate commerce with intent to commit an offense punishable by imprisonment for more than one year, and transporting a stolen firearm in interstate commerce.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro emphasized the gravity of the case in a statement announcing the new charges.
“The transfer of this case from Superior Court to District Court ensures that we can undertake the serious, deliberate and weighty analysis required to determine if the death penalty is appropriate here,” Pirro said. She further highlighted the profound impact of the tragedy, stating, “Sarah Beckstrom was just 20 years old when she was killed and her parents are now forced to endure the holiday season without their daughter.
Andrew Wolfe, by the grace of God, survived but has a long road ahead in his recovery.”
This remains a developing story, and further updates will be provided as they become available.