Afghan National Accused of Ambushing National Guardsmen in DC with .357 Revolver

Ambush Attack on National Guardsmen

• 🎯 Two uniform guardsmen were ambushed and shot without provocation near 17th and I streets in northwest DC on Thanksgiving Eve.
• 💥 The attack occurred at approximately 2:15 PM near the Farragut West Metro Station.
• 3️⃣57 Smith and Wesson revolver was the weapon used by the lone gunman.
• ⚠️ One guardsman was struck and then shot again by the assailant, while another was struck multiple times.

Suspect Identification and Background

• 👤 The suspect has been identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national.
• 🇺🇸 Lakanwal entered the United States under Biden's Operation Allies Welcome following the withdrawal from Afghanistan.
• 🏠 He resided in Bellingham, Washington, with his wife and five children.
• 🚗 Lakanwal reportedly drove across the country from Washington state to reach the nation's capital with the intent to target it.

Response and Investigation

• 🛡️ Fellow guardsmen responded immediately, engaging the suspect, neutralizing the threat, and subduing him.
• 🚓 The Metropolitan Police Department and National Guard secured the scene within minutes, preventing further victims.
• 🏥 The suspect was transported to a local hospital and remains under heavy guard.
• 🤝 Federal partners, including DHS and the FBI, are working closely with authorities to review his immigration history and the vetting process.