Donald Trump has responded to questions about whether he plans to attend the funeral of Sarah Beckstrom, a 20-year-old West Virginia National Guard member who was fatally shot near the White House.
Beckstrom was one of two service members wounded on November 26 after being fired upon by an Afghan national. Both guards were initially hospitalized in critical condition, but Beckstrom later succumbed to her injuries, The Guardian reports.
During his Thanksgiving call with U.S. troops, Trump shared that he had just learned of Beckstrom’s passing.
He described Specialist Beckstrom as an “incredible person, outstanding in every single way,” and added: “She’s just passed away. She’s no longer with us. She’s looking down at us right now. Her parents are with her.”
The other victim, 24-year-old Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, remains in the hospital and is, according to Trump, “fighting for his life.”
Details About the Shooting and the Suspect
Authorities have charged 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal in connection with the shooting. According to sources who spoke with the Associated Press, Lakanwal previously served in a CIA-backed Afghan army unit before emigrating to the United States.
The incident has prompted renewed scrutiny and calls for clarity regarding security procedures and immigration vetting tied to former Afghan military personnel.
Credit: Pete Marovich / Getty Images.
Trump Addresses Possibility of Attending Beckstrom’s Funeral
In the aftermath of the tragedy, Trump was asked whether he intended to attend Beckstrom’s funeral. He did not commit to a decision but indicated it was a possibility.
“It is certainly something I could conceive of,” Trump said, as reported by The Mirror. He added: “I love West Virginia, and I won West Virginia by one of the biggest margins of any president anywhere.”
Trump continued by acknowledging his admiration for the state and its residents. “These are great people. I love the people of West Virginia, I love the people of our country, but I haven't given it any thought.”
As of now, the date for Beckstrom’s funeral has not been announced publicly, leaving her community and supporters awaiting further updates.
Community Vigils Planned to Honor Beckstrom’s Memory
In her hometown of Webster Springs, the Veterans of Foreign Wars post is organizing prayer vigils to honor Beckstrom and support her loved ones.
According to a statement posted by the Webster County Veterans Auxiliary: “Our hearts are absolutely broken to share that Sarah has passed away from the injuries she sustained in the D.C. attack. There are no words big enough for this loss.”
The post added that the upcoming community gatherings will now serve as a tribute to Beckstrom’s life and as a show of solidarity for those grieving.
Residents are being encouraged to wear blue ribbons, a color traditionally associated with honoring and supporting service members.