Photo: Alamy
President Donald Trump said Sunday he has invited the family of a National Guard member fatally shot in Washington last week to visit the White House, saying he spoke with her parents, who were “devastated” following the loss of their daughter.
U.S. Army Specialist. Sarah Beckstrom died after the Wednesday shooting near the White House. Her colleague, U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe remains in critical condition.
President Trump said he discussed hosting the parents of both West Virginia National Guard members.
“I said, ‘When you’re ready, because that’s a tough thing, come to the White House. We’re going to honor Sarah,’” the president told reporters. “And likewise with Andrew, recover or not.”
Communities in West Virginia have held vigils in recent days, including one Saturday at Webster County High School, where Beckstrom studied.
“Sarah was the kind of student that teachers hoped for, she carried herself with quiet strength, a contagious smile and a positive energy that lifted people around her,” said principal Gabriel Markle. “She was sweet, caring and always willing to help others.”
Beckstrom, 20, and Wolfe, 24, were serving in Washington as part of President Trump’s crime-fighting initiative that federalized the D.C. police force.
A 29-year-old Afghan national has been charged with first-degree murder and two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed. The attack prompted the administration to halt asylum decisions and suspend visas for people traveling on Afghan passports.
Funeral arrangements for Beckstrom were still pending, according to Cathy Pettry, owner of Dodd & Reed Funeral Home in Webster Springs. Pettry said the home had been in contact with Beckstrom’s family.
Wolfe, of Martinsburg, enlisted in February 2019 and graduated from Musselman High School the same year, according to Berkeley County Schools. He remained hospitalized and “fighting for his life,” Morrisey said the following day.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi said she also planned to meet with Wolfe’s family.
Morrisey said the state was facing a difficult moment. Calling Beckstrom a “favorite daughter of Webster County,” he noted her reputation as someone with a generous spirit who loved serving others.
