Military Attack Accused Spent Weeks Isolated in Bedroom, Social Worker's Message Indicated.
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The individual alleged to have carried out firing upon two National Guard members in the nation's capital recently had reportedly spent extended periods alone in a dark room and experienced "manic episodes," according to notes documented in 2024 by a support worker that helped the suspect's family.
Rahmanullah Lakanwal is charged with perpetrating an "ambush" that took the life of Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and critically wounded Andrew Wolf, 24.
Officials stated the 29-year-old came to the US in 2021 as part of a programme for Afghans who had worked with American troops in Afghanistan.
Emerging Information on Psychological State
Based on emails from last year, Mr. Lakanwal faced challenges with his mental health.
In a different message sent on 31 January 2024, the worker said Mr. Lakanwal "spends the majority of his days for weeks on end in his darkened bedroom, refusing to talk to anyone, not even his wife and older kids."
The case worker, who was not a mental health professional, also said Mr. Lakanwal had "hyperactive periods for a week or two at a time where he would drive away in the family car." They also described he had periods in which he would try to "apologize and reconcile."
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History and Recent Developments
Mr. Lakanwal, an Afghan national, came to the US as part of the Biden-era resettlement program. This was during the period after the chaotic US military exit from Afghanistan.
He sought refugee status in 2024, and his application was granted earlier this year.
He resided with his family in Bellingham, Washington.
"World Relief volunteers are attempting to assist for that family - but I think the father has psychological problems that are not addressed, and he won't talk to anyone," a section of an earlier email reads.
Last week, a childhood friend told a publication that Mr. Lakanwal had experienced psychological challenges after his service with his unit in Afghanistan.
Mr. Lakanwal had allegedly been a part of a "special unit" - an Afghan intelligence and militia that collaborated with a American spy agency.
Government Reaction and Legal Proceedings
In the days after the attack in the capital, the administration vowed to "halt migration" from certain countries.
The government has halted all refugee claims "until we can ensure that every alien is vetted and screened to the fullest extent," a director said.
Mr. Lakanwal, who was injured during the incident and remains in hospital, is facing murder charges.
