Breaking News: Afghan Refugee Rahmanullah Lakanwal Identified as Suspected Terrorist in Washington DC National Guard Shooting
In a shocking incident in Washington, D.C., an Afghan refugee named Rahmanullah Lakanwal has been identified as the gunman behind a shooting that left two National Guard members critically injured. This attack, described as a potential act of terrorism, occurred near Farragut Square around 2:15 PM on November 26, 2025.
Details of the Shooting Incident
Law enforcement sources indicate that Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, was waiting at the Farragut West Metro Station before ambushing the guards. He first shot a female soldier in the chest and then in the head. The second guard was also shot as he opened fire.
Another National Guard soldier intervened, taking Lakanwal down before more damage could occur. Both injured guards were taken to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Following the altercation, Lakanwal was reportedly apprehended after sustaining four gunshot wounds himself.
Identification and Background of the Suspect
Rahmanullah Lakanwal entered the U.S. during the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome and had resettled in Bellingham, Washington. He was part of a larger group of approximately 90,000 Afghan evacuees allowed entry into the U.S. during this period.
Despite his initial resettlement under the Biden administration’s immigration programs, it has been reported that Lakanwal overstayed his Special Immigration Visa, which expired in September 2025. As a result, he was living in the U.S. illegally at the time of the attack.
Response and Reactions
Following the shooting, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser labeled it a “targeted shooting.” Both President Trump and Vice President JD Vance were out of town during the incident. In response to the attack, Trump ordered an additional 500 National Guard troops to be deployed to Washington, D.C.
- Remarks by Officials:
- Secretary of War Pete Hegseth expressed the need to ensure safety in the capital.
- Current National Guard troop levels were reported at approximately 2,100, including 900 from the D.C. National Guard.
Investigations and Increased Security Measures
The FBI is investigating the shooting as a potential act of terror. While some Afghan evacuees had been identified on a terrorist watchlist in a previous report, the majority posed no threat. As of July 2024, nine evacuees remained on the terror radar, eight of whom were still in the U.S.
The circumstances surrounding the vetting process for Afghan refugees, particularly under the Biden administration, have come under scrutiny. Lakanwal’s case underscores the complexities involved in resettlement programs designed to assist those fleeing conflict.
As investigations continue, authorities are focused on understanding the motives behind this heinous act and ensuring the safety of the Washington D.C. area moving forward.
