WASHINGTON — The person accused of taking pictures two Nationwide Guardsmen, killing one, made a digital look in D.C. Superior Court docket on Tuesday to face a cost of first-degree homicide.
Afghan nationwide Rahmanullah Lakanwal, who was additionally shot, could possibly be seen on a video feed laying down in a hospital mattress. Officers allege that Lakanwal gunned down Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Employees Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, final week whereas they have been on patrol close to the White Home as a part of the their deployment to the nation’s capital.
Lakanwal, 29, can also be charged with assault with intent to kill whereas armed; possession of a firearm; and possession of a firearm throughout a criminal offense of violence along with homicide.
He pleaded not responsible to all counts. A judged ordered Lakanwal held with out bond.
Court docket paperwork say that Lakawal yelled “Allahu akbar!” (“God is nice” in Arabic) as he fired and that he was subdued as he seemed to be reloading.
Each guard members, who have been serving in West Virginia’s Nationwide Guard, have been shot within the head final Wednesday. Beckstrom died from her wounds, President Donald Trump informed troops in a Thanksgiving Day name.
Wolfe stays in critical situation. However West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey stated Monday that he had confirmed indicators of enchancment after giving nurses a “thumbs-up” and having the ability to wiggle his toes.
Authorities haven’t but recognized a motive for the taking pictures.
A relative of Lakanwal stated he arrived within the U.S. in September 2021 after having served within the Afghan military for 10 years alongside U.S. Particular Forces troops. He was residing in Bellingham, Washington, together with his spouse and 5 kids, the relative added.
The CIA confirmed that Lakanwal labored for the U.S. authorities as a member of a associate pressure in Kandahar. His service led to 2021 following the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan.
