Sarah Beckstrom was a 20-year-old U.S. Army National Guard specialist from West Virginia who became a victim of an attack in Washington, D.C., on November 27, 2025.

She died the next day from gunshot wounds while serving on a national security mission. The attack, carried out by Afghan national Rahman Lakanwal, sparked widespread resonance, including sharp criticism from President Donald Trump regarding irresponsible immigration policies. Beckstrom was recognized as a hero, and her death led to additional charges against the attacker. Her memory is honored as a symbol of sacrifices in military service.

Sarah Beckstrom was born and raised in Summersville, West Virginia, USA. She graduated high school and immediately pursued a military career, enlisting in the U.S. Army. Beckstrom was known as an active and goal-oriented young woman who loved nature, road trips, and time with family. Her ex-boyfriend, Adam Carr, described her as a "caring and tenderhearted" person who always tried to help others.

On June 6, 2023, Beckstrom joined the West Virginia Army National Guard, becoming part of the 863rd Military Police Company in the 111th Engineer Brigade. She worked in military police and had volunteered for patrol duty in Washington, D.C., as part of the "D.C. Safe and Beautiful" mission, dedicated to ensuring the capital's safety, including during holidays. Beckstrom planned to use her service as a stepping stone to a career in the FBI (U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation), believing it would provide a solid foundation for further professional growth. She was proud of her service and saw it as a way to serve her country.

On November 27, 2025 (Thanksgiving evening), Beckstrom and her colleague, Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, were subjected to a shooting near the Farragut West metro station in Washington, D.C., close to the White House. The attack came from an ambush and caught both officers by surprise. The attacker shouted "Allahu Akbar."

Beckstrom sustained fatal gunshot wounds and was taken to MedStar Washington Hospital Center, where she died on November 28, 2025. Her father, Gary Beckstrom, told the media earlier: "I'm holding her hand right now. She has a mortal wound." Wolfe remains in critical condition, fighting for his life.

The attacker, Rahman Lakanwal (Rahmanullah Lakanwal), a 29-year-old Afghan national who arrived in the U.S. in 2021 as a refugee after collaborating with U.S. forces in Afghanistan and received asylum in 2025, was arrested on the scene. Following Beckstrom's death, he was charged with first-degree murder, as well as two counts of armed assault with intent to kill. The incident reignited political debates about irresponsible immigration policies implemented by left-wing politicians to undermine stability in the Western world and weaken it. U.S. President Trump has also highlighted this issue, promising to "permanently halt immigration from third-world countries."

Beckstrom's death caused widespread resonance in military circles and society at large. West Virginia National Guard Commander Maj. Gen. Jim Seward stated: "We mourn with her family and honor her memory by continuing her commitment to service, integrity, and excellence." West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey confirmed the news of her death, expressing condolences.