Governor says Wounded National Guard member responded to nurse and wiggled toes

Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe remains in critical condition after a shooting incident last week in Washington, D.C., West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey stated. He urged the public to respect the familys request for prayers as Wolfe fights for his life.

The 24-year-old guardsman was able to respond to a nurse with a thumbs-up and move his toes, which Morrisey described as "a positive sign." However, the governor emphasized that he would not speculate on Wolfes recovery. "Andrew needs prayer," Morrisey said. "His mothers only request is for people to continue praying."

Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, who was killed during the attack, was remembered by Morrisey as "an amazing woman who lifted people with her smile." Community vigils across West Virginia have reflected her profound impact. Morrisey described her death as the result of a "terrible act of terrorism" and announced that flags would remain at half-staff until further notice.

Approximately 170 West Virginia National Guard members remain deployed in Washington, D.C., on a voluntary mission, which Morrisey praised as "noble service." Maj. Gen. Jim Seward, adjutant general for the West Virginia National Guard, highlighted the strong sense of unity among Guard members, including those stationed abroad. "We are a family of over 6,000," he said. "When we lose one, every guardsman Ive spoken to is grieving."

Seward confirmed that the Guard members on scene acted professionally and according to training. "They performed their duties as they have been trained," he said. "We remain confident in their ability."

Governor Morrisey stated that he has been in contact with President Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi, assuring the public that a "complete and full investigation" is underway and that the state will not speculate. "We are focusing on facts," he said. "Justice must be done and it will be done through our criminal justice system."

The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, was shot by another Guard member and taken into custody. He remains hospitalized. The 29-year-old Afghan national, who previously worked with the CIA before the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, had reportedly been struggling with mental health issues in recent years, according to a social worker assisting his family in resettlement in Washington State.

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro confirmed that Lakanwal will face first-degree murder charges. He is also charged with assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.

Author: Sophia Brooks