Order to Hold Afghan Accused in Guard Shooting Pending Trial

A U.S. District Court judge has ruled that Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan citizen accused of killing one member and wounding another of a National Guard unit near Washington, D.C., shall remain incarcerated without bail. Judge Renee Raymond cited the “sheer terror” caused by the incident and deemed the government’s case “exceedingly strong.”

Lakanwal, 29, appeared via video from what was described as being on a hospital bed during Tuesday’s proceedings, requesting an interpreter to communicate his claim of being unable to open his eyes due to pain. A court-appointed attorney entered a not guilty plea on Lakanwal’s behalf.

Prosecutors maintain that the attack constituted an ambush directed against Guard personnel. Charges brought by federal authorities include one count of first-degree murder concerning Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, 20, who remains hospitalized in critical condition alongside Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24. Additionally, three counts of assault with intent to kill while armed and three firearm-related crime-of-violence charges have been filed.

According to court filings referencing a police report, Lakanwal allegedly opened fire as he screamed “Allahu Akbar.” Another Guard member reported hearing the gunfire and witnessing Beckstrom and Wolfe fall after being shot by Lakanwal. He pursued another Guard before being apprehended while attempting to reload his weapon.

The targeted Guard members were part of President Joe Biden’s Operation Allies Welcome, a program facilitating Afghan evacuations from the country following its withdrawal in 2021. This administration has acknowledged scrutiny over such vetting processes, noting that Lakanwal received asylum authorization during Donald Trump’s presidency.

Defense counsel Terrence Austin emphasized Lakanwal’s lack of prior criminal record. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro commented on potential future charges against him and mentioned the process for deciding on bail post-removal from critical care once medically stabilized.

Furthermore, President Biden’s predecessor under Operation Allies Welcome was criticized by figures like former President Trump, who called it a “shocking crime” facilitated by inadequate vetting. Attorney General Kamala Harris is reportedly considering whether to seek the death penalty against Lakanwal in collaboration with relevant authorities.