Lakanwal had recent and acute mental health needs leading up to the tragedy. This particular suspect was responsible for the shooting that left two West Virginia National Guard soldiers wounded in Washington, D.C., the week before Thanksgiving. According to recent emails and interviews, Lakanwal’s struggles with isolation and depression became more pronounced after he arrived in the United States.
Lakanwal came to the U.S. in 2021 as part of the Department of Homeland Security’s Operation Allies Welcome. Prior to that he had fought in a specialized CIA-backed Afghan army unit known as the Zero Unit. His journey to resettlement in Bellingham, Washington, was nothing short of arduous. The biggest challenge was to assimilate into American society with his wife and five young sons. Her community members noticed how difficult he would have it keeping a stable job and being able to consistently attend his English classes.
Come 2024, a tragic change in Lakanwal’s character was evident. A case worker indicated that he alternated between “periods of dark isolation and reckless travel,” struggling to maintain a sense of normalcy. This isolation reportedly included spending time in a “darkened room, not speaking to anyone, not even his wife or older kids.”
“Rahmanullah was a man who was extremely proud and capable in the world he came from, who felt defeated in the world he came to.” – CBS News (case worker)
The context of the shooting event is horrifying. Lakanwal had driven all the way across the country, from Bellingham to Washington, D.C., where he reportedly opened fire on the two soldiers. In the wake of that event, reports say he was haunted by the death of his best friend and fellow Afghan commander, Col. This terrible incident took place in early 2024. According to his case worker, he had “not been functional as a person, father, and provider since March of last year.”
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem remarked on Lakanwal’s transformation since arriving in the U.S., stating that he had been “radicalized since he’s been here in this country.” Noem further noted that investigators suspect he had ties back to his home community that shaped his actions.
“We do believe it was through connections in his home community and state, and we’re going to continue to talk to those who interacted with him.” – Kristi Noem
Despite his mental health struggles, Lakanwal was described by those who knew him as a gracious host, chatty, and charismatic. Yet these very qualities began to erode as he struggled with feelings of dislocation and darkness. Just like his friends and the people in his community, I felt the difference in his spirit through the years.
The tragic shooting incident raises questions about the support systems available for individuals experiencing similar challenges. Lakanwal’s case highlights the immediate need for better mental health resources. Refugees and immigrants who are struggling to adjust to life in the United States deserve better assistance.