Trump says Guard shot near White House dies
The US President said the situation has shaken him deeply, sharing that the second National Guard member is in “very bad shape” and “fighting for his life.” He spoke with a mix of concern and urgency, stressing that these young troops were simply doing their duty when tragedy struck. According to him, the entire incident has left the administration worried and closely monitoring the soldier’s condition. He added that the nation stands with the families of both Guard members as they navigate this heartbreaking moment.
The nation woke up to heartbreaking news on Thursday as President Donald Trump confirmed the passing of Sarah Beckstrom, one of the two West Virginia National Guard troops who were shot near the White House on Wednesday. The young guardswoman, who had been fighting for her life since the attack, succumbed to her injuries despite the efforts of medical teams and the prayers of millions who hoped desperately for her recovery.
Speaking with a heavy heart, President Trump shared the devastating update during a briefing, describing Sarah as an extraordinary young woman whose courage and dedication stood out even in one of the country’s most esteemed military institutions. She’s just passed away. She’s no longer with us,*” he said, visibly moved. His tone reflected not only the gravity of the moment, but the sorrow felt across the nation as yet another uniformed life was lost while on duty.
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey also shared the news, expressing profound grief in a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter). This is not the result we hoped for, but it is the result we all feared.*” His message captured the sinking feeling that had lingered over the state and the country ever since reports emerged of the shocking attack near one of America’s most secure and symbolic locations.
Governor Morrisey went on to honor Sarah’s service in words that painted a clear picture of who she was—not just a soldier, but a human being of exceptional character, West Virginia National Guard.*” In his tribute, her bravery became more than a headline; it became a reminder of the selflessness of those who rise each day willing to protect others.
Sarah, only 20 years old, had her entire future ahead of her. Friends, family, and colleagues often described her as compassionate, disciplined, and driven—a young woman who believed deeply in service, community, and country. She joined the National Guard with pride, knowing the responsibilities and risks that came with the uniform, yet eager to represent her home state and contribute meaningfully wherever she was needed. Her journey, though tragically short, left an indelible mark on those who trained with her, worked alongside her, and loved her.
Her fellow guardsman, Andrew Wolfe, aged 24, was critically injured in the same attack and continues to battle for his life. The two were on routine patrol only blocks from the White House when a gunman suddenly opened fire on November 26, just one day before Thanksgiving. What should have been a period of celebration and gratitude instead turned into a moment of shock and sorrow, as Americans watched in disbelief that such violence could erupt so close to one of the most protected zones in the country.
Authorities are still investigating the motive and background of the shooter, but what remains painfully clear is the emotional toll this incident has taken. For the families of Sarah and Andrew, the tragedy is deeply personal—a shattering blow that interrupted ordinary lives with extraordinary loss. For members of the military and law enforcement communities, it is a stark reminder of the vulnerability that can exist even in the heart of the capital. And for citizens across the nation, it is another moment that stirs both grief and reflection.
As news of Sarah’s passing spreads, tributes continue to flood in. Flags are expected to be lowered, vigils are being planned, and messages of solidarity are coming from every corner of the country. People who never knew Sarah personally are sharing their condolences, touched by her story and the sacrifice she made at such a young age. Communities in West Virginia, especially those connected to military families, are rallying together to support Sarah’s loved ones as they navigate a loss that feels too heavy and too sudden.
In the days ahead, as investigations continue and as Andrew’s fight for survival carries on, the country will remember Specialist Sarah Beckstrom—not just as a victim of violence, but as a beacon of service, courage, and youthful promise. Her legacy will endure through the stories told about her bravery, the lives she touched, and the example she set for future generations of Americans who choose the path of duty and honor.