By Cara Tabachnick, News Editor
December 12, 2025 / 5:11 PM EST
Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, the National Guard member critically wounded in the Nov. 26 shooting in Washington, D.C., is now breathing on his own and can stand with assistance, his medical team said Friday.
Wolfe’s care team at MedStar Washington Hospital Center said he has shown “extraordinary progress” in the 16 days since he was airlifted to the hospital with a gunshot wound to the head. Neurosurgeon Jeffrey Mai said those developments — independent breathing and the ability to stand with help — are important milestones that demonstrate Wolfe’s strength and determination.
Because of his recent improvements, doctors said Wolfe is ready to move from acute care to inpatient rehabilitation. The family, however, asked that the rehabilitation facility not be disclosed.
Wolfe, 24, and Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, 20, both members of the West Virginia National Guard, were shot in what authorities have described as an ambush-style attack on Nov. 26. Beckstrom died of her injuries the next day.
Authorities charged 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal with murder, assault with intent to kill while armed, and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence; he has pleaded not guilty.
West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey said last week that Wolfe was “slowly healing,” and the family had expected him to remain in acute care for a further two to three weeks while remaining hopeful about his recovery.
The family expressed deep gratitude to the hospital staff, saying the medical care has been remarkable and that clinicians have described Wolfe’s recovery as miraculous. They acknowledged the road ahead will be long and difficult but said they believe he will continue to improve quickly. In a statement, the family asked for ongoing prayers and expressed hope that Wolfe will return to work, rejoin the West Virginia National Guard and embrace “his new mission of being a light into this world.”