US President Donald Trump says National Guard soldier Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, who was shot near the White House in Washington DC on Wednesday, has died.
A male soldier who was also shot, Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, is fighting for his life, the president added.
Speaking off the cuff at the White House, Mr Trump said he had been told of Ms Beckstrom’s death seconds before fronting the media.
“Highly respected, young, magnificent person, started service in June of 2023, outstanding in every way, she’s just passed away. She’s no longer with us. She’s looking down at us right now,” he said.
“Her parents are with her. This just happened. Savagely attacked, she’s dead. She’s not with us.
“Incredible person. Outstanding in every single way, in every department. It’s horrible.”
The alleged shooter, 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, who entered the US in 2021, is in custody and the shooting is being investigated by the FBI as an act of terrorism.
National Guard troops Andrew Wolfe, left, and Sarah Beckstrom were shot just blocks from the White House. (Reuters: Nathan Howard)
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