On Sunday, former President Donald Trump shared that he had communicated with the families of the two National Guardsmen affected by last week’s shooting in the nation’s capital. He expressed his condolences to the parents of 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom, who succumbed to her injuries, and offered support to the family of Andrew Wolfe, who remains in critical condition. Trump indicated his intention to honor these soldiers at the White House.

While speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump described the deep sorrow felt by the families of the West Virginia National Guardsmen following the attack, which occurred mere blocks from the White House last Wednesday.

“Andrew is battling for his life, and his parents are truly remarkable individuals, deeply religious,” Trump stated. “They are praying and have asked everyone to join them in praying for Andrew, as he still has a fighting chance.”

Trump mentioned that he has discussed with both families the possibility of a visit to the White House.

File photo of National Guardsman Andrew Wolfe who was shot in an attack in Washington D.C., on Nov. 26, 2025. Trump said Sunday that Wolfe is “fighting for his life.” (Provided by Department of Justice)

“I said, ‘When you’re ready, because that’s a tough thing, come to the White House. We’re going to honor Sarah,’” Trump told reporters. “And likewise with Andrew, recover or not.”

File photo of National Guardsman Sarah Beckstrom who was shot in an attack in Washington D.C., on Nov. 26, 2025. She later died of her injuries. (Provided by Department of Justice)

Beckstrom, a specialist in the Army, and Wolfe, an Air Force staff sergeant, were among members of the West Virginia National Guard deployed to the D.C. area after Trump signed an executive order aiming to tackle crime in the city earlier this year.

The suspected shooter is Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national.

Lakanwal had legally entered the United States in September 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome, the Biden administration’s Afghan evacuation and resettlement program.

Emergency personnel gather near where two National Guard soldiers were shot near the White House on Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (Mark Schiefelbein/AP)

Lakanwal faces charges of first-degree murder and two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed. Attorney General Pam Bondi has said the Department of Justice intends to seek the death penalty.

Local vigils in West Virginia have honored the two soldiers, including one Saturday evening at Webster County High School, where Beckstrom attended classes.

President Trump announced Thursday that National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom, 20, of West Virginia, has died after she and another guardsman were shot in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday. (District of Columbia National Guard via X)

West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey called Beckstrom a “favorite daughter of Webster County” during the vigil, saying she had developed a reputation as someone with a big heart who loved to serve others.

“She had a lot of kindness and she certainly had courage,” Morrisey told the crowd. “Though her life lasted far too short, she has left a mark that’s going to last forever.”