National Guardsmen shoot suspect connected to Afghan commander's death and financial troubles

Authorities investigating last week's fatal shooting of National Guardsmen are uncovering a picture of mounting financial difficulties and possible mental health struggles for the suspect, sources told ABC News. Investigators are also examining the influence of the recent death of an Afghan commander who allegedly worked alongside 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal. The loss of this commander, reportedly someone Lakanwal admired greatly, reportedly had a profound emotional impact on him.

Sources indicate that this personal tragedy may have worsened Lakanwals financial challenges, which included unemployment, an expired work permit, and difficulty providing for his family. Officials confirmed the suspect is married with five children. He traveled from his Washington state home to Washington, D.C., where he targeted the National Guardsmen.

A senior law enforcement official told ABC News that investigators are considering all angles, including the suspect's deteriorating domestic situation. The FBI, Homeland Security, and intelligence agencies are also exploring whether international terrorist influences played a role. However, authorities have not found public evidence linking Lakanwal to any terrorist group, and no terror-related charges have been filed.

The investigation remains in its early stages. On November 26, two National Guard members were shot near the White House, with one succumbing to injuries the following day. President Donald Trump described the shooting as "an act of evil, hatred, and terror," and noted that Lakanwal entered the U.S. from Afghanistan in September 2021, criticizing the previous administrations handling of immigration matters.

Lakanwal previously collaborated with U.S. government operations, including CIA-affiliated activities in Kandahar, which concluded in 2021 after the Afghanistan withdrawal, according to CIA Director John Ratcliffe. He applied for and was granted asylum in April 2024. In Afghanistan, he was part of the Zero Unit, working closely with CIA and Joint Special Operations Command teams and was considered a trusted operative involved in counterterrorism missions.

The FBI continues to interview Lakanwal's relatives and associates, reviewing documents, mobile devices, social media accounts, and other materials tied to him. Lakanwal remains hospitalized under strict security measures, sources said.

Author: Sophia Brooks