Who is Rahmanullah Lakanwal? Unraveling the Life of the 29-Year-Old Afghan Suspect in the 2025 DC National Guard Shooting
On November 26, 2025, two National Guard members were ambushed and shot near the White House. The suspect was identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national. This profile compiles verified public information on his background, immigration path, and the developing federal investigation.
Early life in Afghanistan: roots in Khost Province
Born February 9, 1996, in Khost Province, Lakanwal grew up in a rural, Pashtun society shaped by decades of conflict. The family name appears linked to localities in Khost (sometimes transcribed variably), and his upbringing reflects the broader social and economic conditions of that border region. Public records and contemporaneous reporting do not show established ties between Lakanwal and organized militant groups; investigators say there are as yet no confirmed affiliations.
The path to America: entry under Operation Allies Welcome
As U.S. forces withdrew from Afghanistan in August 2021, Lakanwal arrived in the United States through evacuation and humanitarian processing programs collectively known as Operation Allies Welcome. He was processed by Department of Homeland Security (DHS) screening at that time and resettled to Bellingham, Washington, under NGO sponsorship, according to law-enforcement sources and media reporting.0
Life in the U.S.: a low profile in Bellingham
Between 2021 and late 2025, Lakanwal reportedly lived in Bellingham. Publicly available information indicates a limited online footprint and no prior criminal record in the U.S. Reporting describes him as reclusive with possible employment in typical entry-level sectors; specific employment records have not been released by authorities.1
The DC National Guard shooting: what happened
On the afternoon of November 26, 2025, near 17th and I Streets NW (close to the Farragut West Metro), two West Virginia National Guard members on patrol were shot in what officials have deemed a deliberate, targeted attack. Lakanwal allegedly approached and fired on the Guardsmen; they returned fire, wounding him. All three were transported to hospitals; the Guardsmen were reported in critical condition and the suspect was hospitalized following the exchange. Federal authorities have treated the incident as a possible act of terrorism.2
Investigation status and national security implications
The FBI is leading a multi-agency probe alongside DHS and Secret Service. Investigators have seized devices and are conducting full forensic searches while re-examining Lakanwal’s immigration records. Authorities have not publicly confirmed a motive; investigators are reviewing indicators of radicalization, possible personal grievances, and whether visa status or overstays played a role.3
Conclusion — a troubling, evolving story
The life of Rahmanullah Lakanwal — from Khost to Bellingham to the scene in Washington — is now a focal point for criminal investigators and immigration policy critics alike. Facts are still emerging; this profile reflects publicly reported information as of November 27, 2025. We will update this page as authoritative statements and documents become available.
- Reuters — coverage and identification of suspect. 4
- The Guardian — live reporting and situational updates. 5
- CBS / News outlets live updates — details about entry to U.S. and status. 6
- Associated Press / WRAL — scene reporting and victim condition. 7
- Wikipedia (topic page compiled from sources) for consolidated incident timeline. 8
100 Likely Searched Queries & Questions
Below are 100 terms and questions people are likely to search related to this incident, the suspect, and related policy topics. Use these as FAQ items, on-page anchors, or keyword targets for SEO.
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