West Virginia Governor Provides Update on Healing Process of National Guard Member Who Survived DC Shooting

INWOOD, W.Va. (AP) A member of the West Virginia National Guard, who survived a shooting incident in Washington last week, is making gradual progress, according to the states governor. Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, who sustained a head injury, is reportedly improving slowly, with the governor stating that he is "starting to look more like himself," as quoted by Wolfes parents.

Wolfe, along with Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, was attacked while patrolling a subway station near the White House on November 26. Beckstrom succumbed to her injuries the following day.

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, was also injured in the confrontation and faces murder charges. Lakanwal has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The governor mentioned that Wolfes family anticipates he will remain in acute care for the next two to three weeks. He encouraged the people of West Virginia and across the nation to continue praying for Wolfes recovery. A vigil in his honor was planned at Musselman High School, his alma mater, in Berkeley County on Friday evening.

Wolfe, a 24-year-old from Martinsburg, West Virginia, located roughly 75 miles from Washington, D.C., was part of the Force Support Squadron, 167th Airlift Wing of the West Virginia Air National Guard. He began working as a lineman at Frontier Communications in early 2023, the company confirmed. Wolfe enlisted in the National Guard in 2019, following his high school graduation.

During his time at Musselman High, Wolfe was an active and accomplished student, known for his positive contributions both in academics and athletics. Principal Alicia Riggleman highlighted that he embodied the Applemen spirit, making a lasting impact on the school community.

Wolfe and Beckstrom were part of a group of over 2,000 troops sent to Washington, D.C., as part of President Donald Trumps crime prevention initiative, which included taking over the local police department.

Author: Zoe Harrison