Afghan Suspect Faces First-Degree Murder Charge in National Guard Shooting Near White House

Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal will face first-degree murder charges after a shooting near the White House left two National Guard members injured, one fatally. Washington, DC officials hinted at potential death penalty charges despite its abolition in the area. Trump's response includes proposed immigration restrictions.

An Afghan national, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, faces upgraded charges of first-degree murder following a shooting incident near the White House that resulted in the death of a National Guard member, reports The Washington Post.

Jeanine Pirro, the US attorney for Washington, DC, confirmed the suspect would face further charges. Lakanwal had arrived from Afghanistan in 2021 as part of 'Operation Allies Welcome', a post-withdrawal initiative by the Biden administration.

The incident, which resulted in the death of Spec. Sarah Beckstrom and injured another, has prompted Attorney General Pam Bondi to seek the death penalty, despite its abolition in the District of Columbia. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump has proposed stringent immigration bans following the attack.

(With inputs from agencies.)