National Guard Members Targeted in Washington D.C. Shooting, Sparking Security review
A shooting in Washington D.C. involving a National Guard member as the target has triggered investigations and a re-evaluation of security protocols and immigration processes. The incident occurred when the suspect, identified as Nicolai Lakanwal, allegedly launched an “ambush-style” attack on two National guard members with a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver.
lakanwal, who resided in Washington state with his wife and five children, reportedly drove across the country to carry out the attack. He shot one guard member twice before firing at the second. Other National Guard members present at the scene quickly engaged and neutralized the suspect.
As of the time of reporting, the condition of the injured National Guard members remains critical, and charges against Lakanwal could be elevated to first-degree murder should they succumb to their injuries. Currently, he faces three counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.
The FBI is investigating the shooting as a potential act of terrorism. Searches have been conducted at Lakanwal’s residences in Washington state and San Diego,California,but investigators have yet to determine a motive,believing he acted alone.
lakanwal was among approximately 76,000 Afghans resettled in the U.S. following the withdrawal of troops, many having served as interpreters and translators alongside U.S. forces. The resettlement program has faced scrutiny regarding vetting procedures, with some, including former President Trump, raising concerns about potential security gaps.
Following the shooting, the Biden governance faced immediate criticism. Trump called for a extensive re-examination of all individuals admitted from Afghanistan under the current administration and advocated for the removal of any immigrant deemed not to benefit the country.
In response, several federal agencies announced immigration reviews. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) halted processing of all immigration requests related to Afghan nationals, and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) expanded the review to include all asylum cases approved under the Biden administration. USCIS Director Joseph Edlow announced a “full-scale, rigorous re-examination of every green card” for individuals from countries identified as “of concern” based on a previous executive order restricting entry from 19 nations.
The incident also prompted discussion regarding the presence of the National Guard in Washington D.C. Trump proposed deploying an additional 500 National Guard troops to the capital. As of early November,the D.C. National Guard had 949 members deployed, supplemented by forces from several other states. However, a recent federal judge’s order to end the Guard deployment has been temporarily stayed for 21 days to allow for potential appeal or troop removal.
