As investigators continue to explore the motivations behind the tragic National Guardsmen shooting that occurred last week, a troubling picture is emerging. Sources familiar with the case have revealed to ABC News that the suspect, 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, was grappling with significant financial stress and potential mental health issues.
Reports indicate that investigators are closely examining the effects of the recent death of an Afghan commander, who had a profound influence on Lakanwal. This commander, with whom Lakanwal allegedly had a deep admiration, passed away, leaving the suspect in a state of grief. Sources suggest that this personal tragedy may have exacerbated Lakanwal's already precarious financial situation, which included unemployment, an expired work permit, and challenges in meeting basic needs like paying rent and feeding his five children.
Prior to the shooting, Lakanwal drove from his home in Washington state to the nation's capital. Officials reported that he specifically targeted the National Guardsmen, resulting in the serious injury of two members, one of whom tragically succumbed to her injuries the following day. This incident occurred just blocks away from the White House on November 26, raising alarm and drawing immediate attention from law enforcement.
A senior law enforcement official stated that the investigation is comprehensive, focusing on the suspect's deteriorating home life and financial challenges. The FBI, Homeland Security, and intelligence officials are also probing whether the attack was influenced or directed by international terrorist organizations. However, as of now, there has been no public evidence connecting Lakanwal to any terrorist group, and no terrorism charges have been filed against him.
In response to the shooting, President Donald Trump condemned the act, labeling it as "an act of evil, an act of hatred, and an act of terror," describing it as a crime against the nation. Trump referenced information from the Department of Homeland Security, which indicated that Lakanwal entered the United States from Afghanistan in September 2021. The president criticized the previous administration under President Joe Biden regarding immigration policies.
Prior to the shooting, Lakanwal had worked with the U.S. government, including the CIA, as a member of a partner force in Kandahar. His involvement with the Zero Unit, which collaborated closely with the CIA and the Joint Special Operations Command, made him a reliable operative against U.S. counterterrorism targets. Lakanwal applied for asylum in 2024, which was granted under the Trump administration.
The FBI has been diligently interviewing Lakanwal's family and associates while analyzing various documents and materials obtained through searches of his mobile devices, social media accounts, and properties. As of the latest updates, Lakanwal remains hospitalized under heavy guard, as authorities continue to piece together the events leading up to the shooting.