Fasil Regassa, the owner of a local 7-Eleven convenience store, was visibly shaken as he spoke about the tragic death of Sarah Beckstrom, a 20-year-old member of the National Guard who was shot just outside his store. “I cried when I heard she died,” Regassa shared with CNN, reflecting on the profound impact of the incident. For nine years, Regassa and his wife, immigrants from Ethiopia, have operated their store just across the street from the scene of the shooting, which has left the community grappling with grief and fear.
On Wednesday, chaos erupted in the bustling downtown area of Washington, DC, near the Farragut West Metro Station. Beckstrom and fellow soldier Andrew Wolfe, 24, were shot multiple times by a lone gunman right outside the metro entrance. Tragically, Beckstrom succumbed to her injuries on Thursday evening. Both soldiers were members of the West Virginia National Guard, deployed to the capital in August during President Donald Trump’s law enforcement surge. Regassa recounted how he quickly locked the doors of his store and ushered his customers to safety in the back area as the shooting began.
The shooting has left many local business owners and community members reflecting on their safety and the presence of National Guard members in the area. Regassa noted that these troops have made the neighborhood feel “more safe,” describing them as “completely nice people” who often visit his store for snacks and drinks. He recalled a past incident in 2020 when his store was overrun by thieves, leading to a broken leg for him. This contrast highlights the complex feelings surrounding security in the area.
Rosa Fuentes, manager of Tatte Bakery & Cafe, was also caught in the chaos. Upon hearing the gunfire, she quickly locked her restaurant’s doors, keeping customers safe inside. She described the scene outside, recalling a woman who was “crying, shaking, and panicking.” Fuentes, an immigrant from El Salvador, expressed mixed feelings about the potential deployment of more National Guard troops in response to the violence, saying, “I don’t know,” as she worries about the safety of the guard members themselves.
Another cafe manager, who chose to remain anonymous, witnessed the shooting and described it as “shocking.” She recounted how she locked the cafe doors and instructed customers to get down on the ground. The guard members, who had maintained a low profile since their arrival, were viewed positively by her, as she believed their presence could provide an additional layer of protection.
Gyanu Sapkota, an immigrant from Nepal who has managed a Subway shop near Farragut Square for 18 years, shared that he often interacted with the guard members and recognized Beckstrom and Wolfe. He noted that the guards have contributed to a safer environment, stating, “That’s better for us” in reference to the potential increase of troops in the area.
Managers from local banks in Farragut Square also experienced the aftermath of the shooting, locking doors and taking cover as police arrived on the scene. While some expressed sadness over the incident, others voiced skepticism about the effectiveness of the National Guard's presence in reducing violence. One bank manager stated, “I just feel there are ways you can do more in the community to cut violence,” emphasizing the belief that military presence alone may not solve the problem.
In the wake of the tragedy, a makeshift memorial has emerged at the shooting site, with flowers, wreaths, and heartfelt notes left by community members. A 21-year-old Marine, who wished to remain anonymous, placed a vase of roses and an American flag patch at the memorial. He expressed discontent with the political discourse following the shooting, stating, “It all needs to stop. We need to recognize that a US service member has lost their life.” A note at the memorial read, “Praying for all Nat’l Guard — thank you for all you do,” highlighting the community's appreciation for their service amidst the sorrow.
The shocking events surrounding the tragic shooting of Sarah Beckstrom have left a profound impact on the local community, prompting discussions about safety, the role of the National Guard, and the need for compassion in times of crisis.