In a heartbreaking development that has shaken the United States ahead of Thanksgiving, Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, one of the two West Virginia National Guard troops shot near the White House on Wednesday, has succumbed to her injuries. US President Donald Trump confirmed the news on Thursday, calling the 20-year-old service member a “magnificent person” who served her country with courage and honor.
⚠️ Deadly Shooting Near the White House
The shocking incident occurred on November 26, just a day before Thanksgiving, when Beckstrom and her fellow guardsman Andrew Wolfe, 24, were patrolling in Northwest Washington DC, only a few blocks from the White House. A gunman opened fire without warning, critically injuring both soldiers in what authorities described as a targeted attack.
President Trump, who was not at the White House at the time, expressed deep sorrow over Beckstrom’s death, saying:
“She’s just passed away. She’s no longer with us. Sarah Beckstrom… highly respected, young, magnificent person.”
The President added that Andrew Wolfe remains in “very bad shape” and is “fighting for his life.”
🕊️ Tributes Pour In
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey also confirmed Beckstrom’s passing, writing on X:
“This is not the result we hoped for, but the result we feared. Sarah served with extraordinary resolve and unwavering duty to her state and nation.”
He praised her bravery, her willingness to serve, and the strength she displayed while carrying out her mission.
The tragedy has ignited nationwide grief, with lawmakers, military leaders, and citizens expressing solidarity with the families of the two soldiers.
🔎 Details of the Attack
Authorities revealed that the attacker waited near the Farragut West Metro Station, turning a corner before opening fire at close range:
- Beckstrom was struck in the chest and head
- Wolfe was also critically shot
- A third guardsman nearby intervened and took down the shooter, preventing further casualties
Both victims were rushed to a nearby hospital, where Beckstrom eventually succumbed to her injuries.
🚨 Suspect’s Condition & Investigation
President Trump referred to the gunman as a “monster” and confirmed that he, too, is in serious condition after being shot during the confrontation. Law enforcement sources say:
- The suspect acted alone
- A motive has not yet been revealed
- Federal agencies, including the FBI, are investigating the attack as a possible domestic security incident
The shooting has intensified debates over troop deployment in US cities, security near federal buildings, and rising acts of targeted violence.
🛡️ National Guard Deployment Sparks Debate
There are currently 2,400 National Guard troops deployed in Washington DC:
- 958 from the DC National Guard
- 1,300 from eight other states
This deployment is part of the administration’s expanded public-safety initiative to stabilize high-crime areas in major cities.
Supporters say the guard has helped restore order. Critics argue that prolonged military presence in civilian areas risks blurring lines between law enforcement and national defense.
Beckstrom’s death has reignited the debate — with many questioning whether these young troops face elevated risks while performing patrol duties on American streets.
🇺🇸 Nation Reflects as Another Guard Member Fights for Life
As Wolfe continues to battle life-threatening injuries, the incident stands as a grim reminder of the dangers service members face even on home soil. Tributes continue to pour in from across the country, honoring Beckstrom’s sacrifice and praying for Wolfe’s recovery.
President Trump urged the nation to stand united:
“Hopefully, we will get better news with respect to him.”
This tragedy marks one of the most serious security breaches in the capital in recent years, prompting officials to re-evaluate protocols and enhance protection measures for deployed forces.
