By Cara Tabachnick, News Editor
December 12, 2025 / 5:11 PM EST
The surviving National Guard member wounded in the D.C. shooting is now breathing on his own and can stand with assistance, his medical team said Friday.
Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe’s medical team said in a statement that he “has made extraordinary progress” in the 16 days since he was airlifted to MedStar Washington Hospital Center with a critical gunshot wound to the head.
“He is now breathing on his own and can stand with assistance—important milestones that reflect his strength and determination,” neurosurgeon Jeffrey Mai said in the statement.
Based on Wolfe’s recent improvements, his medical team said he is ready to transition from acute care to inpatient rehabilitation.
West Virginia National Guard members Wolfe, 24, and Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, 20, were shot in an ambush-style attack in Washington, D.C., on Nov. 26. Beckstrom died from her injuries the following day.
Suspect Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, was charged with murder, assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for the shooting. He pleaded not guilty.
West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey said last week that Wolfe was “slowly healing” and that the family expects him to remain in acute care for another two to three weeks, while remaining optimistic about his progress.
Wolfe’s rehabilitation location was not disclosed at his family’s request. The family thanked the medical staff, doctors and nurses who cared for him, saying the care “has been remarkable, and they have told us Andy’s progress is miraculous.”
The family acknowledged Wolfe faces a long and difficult rehabilitation but said they believe he will continue to improve rapidly. “Please continue as God heals Andrew and gives him the strength to return to work, the West Virginia National Guard, and his new mission of being a light into this world,” the family said in a statement.