Suspect accused of shooting National Guard troops pleads not guilty

Published December 2, 2025 3:57pm ET



The Afghan national accused of shooting two National Guard members in Washington, D.C., the day before Thanksgiving has pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against him.

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, was charged Tuesday with first-degree murder, assault with intent to kill while armed, and two counts of possessing a firearm during a crime of violence. Still under medical care, the suspect attended a court hearing via livestream.

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