Suspect in DC shooting of 2 National Guard members formally charged with murder

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, has been officially charged with murder after allegedly shooting two West Virginia National Guard members, resulting in the death of one, in Washington, D.C. Lakanwal, who hails from Bellingham, Washington, made a remote court appearance from his hospital bed where he is currently recovering from gunshot wounds sustained during the incident.

During the virtual hearing, Lakanwal, dressed in a hospital gown and covered in a blanket, was charged with one count of murder, two counts of assault with the intent to kill, and one count of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. With the assistance of a Pashtu interpreter, Lakanwal pleaded not guilty to the charges with the representation of a court-appointed attorney.

At one point during the proceedings, Lakanwal, speaking in Pashtu, expressed discomfort, stating, “I cannot open my eyes, I have pain in my ear.”

As this is an ongoing investigation, updates will be provided as the story progresses. Stay tuned for further developments on this case.