A West Virginia National Guardsman critically wounded in a November ambush shooting near the White House is demonstrating significant signs of recovery, according to official statements. Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, 24, sustained severe head injuries during the November 26th attack that claimed the life of his colleague, 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom.
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey relayed optimistic updates from Wolfe’s family, noting the soldier’s head wound is progressively healing and that he’s gradually returning to his normal appearance. Medical professionals anticipate the Air Force staff sergeant will require approximately two to three additional weeks of acute care treatment.
The shooting incident occurred when Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national and former counterterrorism soldier in a CIA-backed unit, opened fire on National Guard personnel. Law enforcement authorities have charged Lakanwal with first-degree murder and assault with intent to kill.
Governor Morrisey participated in a Friday evening vigil at Musselman High School in Inwood, West Virginia, where Wolfe was formerly a student. During the gathering, a pastor read aloud a heartfelt message from Jason and Melody Wolfe, the soldier’s parents, who expressed both their enduring faith and gratitude for worldwide support despite acknowledging the lengthy recovery ahead.
Earlier medical reports indicated Wolfe had responded to nursing staff with a thumbs-up gesture and demonstrated toe movement capacity, suggesting positive neurological responses.
The shooting has prompted significant policy repercussions, with the Trump administration citing the incident as justification for enhanced immigration enforcement measures. These include the cancellation of citizenship ceremonies for immigrants from 19 countries previously affected by travel restrictions, including Afghanistan.
Wolfe was among 2,000 National Guard members deployed to the capital in August as part of immigration and crime reduction initiatives targeting Democratic-led urban centers. Following the attack, President Trump called for an additional 500 troops to be dispatched to Washington DC.