DC first responders honor Sarah Beckstrom with procession on Thanksgiving following her death

A dignified transfer procession was held on behalf of 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom, who was fatally shot the day before Thanksgiving. Although she was treated at the hospital, she died on the holiday.

The suspect in the shooting, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, is an Afghan national who has been charged with the shooting of Beckstrom as well as Andrew Wolfe, and was hit with a first-degree murder count after Beckstrom's death. The FBI is investigating the targeted shooting as an act of terrorism.

On Thanksgiving evening, first responders in Washington, DC conducted a dignified transfer of Beckstrom's body from Medstar Hospital. EMS, firefighters, police, and other officials were present.

The DC Fire and EMS Department said on X, "As we mourn the tragic loss of West Virginia National Guard Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, DC’s Bravest paid her honor and respect during the dignified transfer procession from Medstar Hospital."

Beckstrom, of the West Virginia National Guard, had reportedly volunteered to work over the holiday so a colleague could have the time off for Thanksgiving. She had been re-deputized less than 24 hours before the shooting in DC took place.

Her death was confirmed in the evening on Thanksgiving, with the West Virginia National Guard stating, "We are devastated to confirm the death of our own, Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, who was shot in the line of duty near the Farragut Square Metro Station Wednesday. Spc. Beckstrom was pronounced dead at MedStar Washington Hospital on Nov. 27, by wounds incurred during the shooting."

MG James Seward of the West Virginia National Guard said of Beckstrom's passing, “On behalf of Gov. Morrisey & WVNG, I extend my condolences to Spc. Beckstrom’s family, friends, and fellow Guardsmen. We grieve alongside them and honor her memory by carrying forward her commitment to service and excellence."