Key Takeaways
• Two National Guard members were shot just blocks from the White House.
• The suspected gunman is 29-year-old Afghan immigrant Rahmanullah Lakanwal.
• He lived in Bellingham, Washington, and got asylum in April 2025.
• Guardsmen and local police subdued and arrested him after the shooting.
• Lakanwal is not cooperating with investigators and remains hospitalized.
A sudden shooting near the White House on Wednesday evening sent shockwaves through Washington, D.C. Two National Guard troops were critically wounded at the corner of 17th Street and I Street. Authorities believe the gunman acted alone. He was wounded, arrested, and taken to a local hospital. Since then, questions have raced about the shooter’s identity, background, and motives. Here are five facts we know so far about Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the man accused of carrying out this White House shooting.
What We Know About the White House Shooting Suspect
1. His Name and Background
The suspect in the White House shooting is Rahmanullah Lakanwal. He is 29 years old and came to the United States in 2021. He arrived during the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. In total, more than 78,000 Afghans resettled in the country after that exit. Lakanwal applied for asylum upon arrival.
2. He Lived in Bellingham, Washington
Four law enforcement sources told NBC News that Lakanwal settled in Bellingham, Washington. He lived there after immigrating. According to CNN, he was granted asylum in April 2025. Yet officials have not released his current immigration status. He may have held temporary protected status or a work permit.
3. How He Was Arrested
The White House shooting suspect surprised two Guardsmen at 17th and I Street. One of them fell to the ground after being shot. Another nearby Guardsman ran to help. He tackled Lakanwal and held him until local police arrived. Then officers took the wounded suspect into custody. They took him to a hospital for treatment.
4. His Injuries and Hospital Treatment
During the shooting, Lakanwal suffered injuries. After police arrested him, they rushed him to a nearby hospital. Authorities have not shared details about how badly he was hurt. However, he remains under medical care and in custody. Investigators must ensure he is fit to question before any formal charges.
5. He Refuses to Cooperate
So far, Lakanwal is not talking to law enforcement. According to CNN, he has declined all interviews and refuses to answer questions. Without his cooperation, authorities must rely on physical evidence and witness statements. As a result, they hope to piece together his motive through other leads.
Background on the White House Shooting
On Wednesday afternoon, people in the nation’s capital were going about their day. Suddenly, shots rang out near the White House. At 17th Street and I Street, two National Guard troops were guarding a security zone. The shooter opened fire without warning. Both service members fell and were rushed to a trauma center. One nearby Guardsman fought the suspect and held him until backup arrived. Residents and tourists watched in disbelief as officers closed off the area.
The shooting renewed fierce debate over political violence. In recent months, public figures raised alarms about threats toward military members. Moreover, officials worry about lone actors who target symbolic sites. Because this happened so close to the White House, it has drawn intense scrutiny.
Life in Bellingham Before the Shooting
Neighbors in Bellingham described Lakanwal as quiet and polite. He lived in a modest apartment not far from downtown. According to local sources, he sometimes worked odd jobs to support himself. Later, he applied for asylum and passed background checks. In April 2025, officials granted his request. Soon after, his case appeared closed.
Yet friends say they never saw signs of violent intent. Instead, they remembered him as kind but reserved. Some noted he prayed five times a day and attended local community gatherings. Despite his low profile, he kept to himself more than most new arrivals.
Why Motive Remains a Mystery
Investigators face a challenge: the suspect’s silence. Officials can’t confirm whether this was an isolated act or connected to a larger group. Typically, interrogators look for social media posts or messages that hint at planning. However, no such materials have emerged so far. Without cooperation, law enforcement will dig into travel records and phone data. They will also interview witnesses and family members. In time, they hope to learn why Lakanwal chose those two Guardsmen and why he struck so close to the White House.
Ongoing Security Changes After the White House Shooting
Due to the attack, security around the White House tightened. Barricades went up on nearby streets. Additional National Guard and Secret Service officers moved in. They now scan every vehicle entering the area. Pedestrians face more checkpoints and bag searches. While these measures slow traffic, officials say public safety comes first. They plan to review security protocols once the suspect’s motive is clear.
What Happens Next
Lakanwal remains under guard in the hospital. Once he recovers, authorities will transfer him to a detention center. Then, he could face federal charges such as attempted murder of a federal officer. At that point, he may finally appear in court. Yet if he stays silent, prosecutors will build their case with other evidence. Meanwhile, both injured Guardsmen are said to be improving. They continue to receive critical care and support from their units.
This case highlights the risks faced by service members on home soil. It also underscores the need for constant vigilance around key landmarks. As more information unfolds, people across the country will watch how investigators unravel the motive behind this White House shooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened during the White House shooting?
Two National Guard troops were shot at 17th Street and I Street. A nearby Guardsman tackled the suspect until police arrived. The shooter was wounded, arrested, and taken to a hospital.
Who is the suspect in the White House shooting?
The suspect is Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan immigrant. He came to the U.S. in 2021 and was granted asylum in April 2025.
Why did the shooter target National Guard members?
His motive remains unknown because he is not cooperating with law enforcement. Investigators are examining evidence and interviewing witnesses to learn his reasons.
What security changes followed the White House shooting?
Officials added barricades and checkpoints near the White House. More officers now screen vehicles and pedestrians to protect the area.