A FEBRUARY 2026 UPDATE ON ANDREW WOLFE

Here’s the most up‑to‑date, verified information available about Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, the West Virginia National Guardsman who was shot in the head during an ambush near the White House in late November 2025.



Current Status of Andrew Wolfe--Andrew Wolfe survived the attack and is making significant, ongoing progress in his recovery.

Medical Recovery--His family reports he is healing well and progressing beyond early expectations.

He is preparing to begin residential rehabilitation and is scheduled for skull reconstruction surgery in March, described as routine and expected to improve his independence.

Wolfe is dealing with aphasia, meaning he generally understands others but has difficulty expressing words.

Earlier updates noted he was “slowly healing,” with his head wound improving and his appearance returning to normal.

Doctors have described his progress as “extraordinary” — he can breathe on his own and stand with assistance.

 
Public Statements---Wolfe himself posted on social media expressing gratitude to be alive and thanking supporters, acknowledging the difficulty of recovery but showing determination.

 
Recognition & Honors---Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that Andrew Wolfe and Spc. Sarah Beckstrom (who was killed in the attack) will receive the Purple Heart.

 
The Attack--Wolfe and Beckstrom were shot in an ambush-style attack near the White House on Nov. 26–27, 2025. The shooter was identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national, who was shot and restrained by other troops at the scene.

Current Legal Status--Lakanwal has pleaded not guilty to nine federal charges, including: First‑degree murder while armed; Multiple counts of assault with intent to kill; Illegal possession of a firearm; Firearm‑related violent‑crime charges

He is being held in federal detention and will remain jailed until trial. Possible Future Steps in the Case

1. Additional Charges May Be Added
Prosecutors have stated that the death penalty has not been ruled out, and they are considering a superseding indictment that could add new, more severe charges.

 
2. Upcoming Court Hearings...He has already been arraigned in federal court.Additional hearings are expected, including ones related to new assault‑with‑intent‑to‑kill charges filed in January.

 3. Trial Timeline...A trial schedule has not yet been finalized, but the judge is expected to outline the timeline in upcoming proceedings.