WASHINGTON, D.C. – Law enforcement authorities have identified the suspect in yesterday's mass shooting at a downtown Washington, D.C. shopping center as 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, according to a brief statement from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
The attack, which left six people dead and a dozen more injured, has sent shockwaves through the capital.
The FBI confirmed Lakanwal's identity and nationality but provided no further details on a potential motive, stating the investigation is "active and ongoing." They urged the public to avoid speculation and to come forward with any relevant information.
However, unverified and highly speculative claims about the shooter's background have rapidly circulated online and among some political commentators. The name "Lakanwal" is being presented by these unconfirmed sources as an indication that the shooter originates from Afghanistan's Khost province, a region known historically as a hotbed for militant activity, including the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
These same unsubstantiated reports are making a further leap, asserting without evidence that "Indian involvement is confirmed." No official agency or credible intelligence source has corroborated this claim. Such assertions are reminiscent of common geopolitical disinformation narratives that seek to link regional rivals to destabilizing events abroad.
The White House Press Secretary, when asked about these developing claims during a press briefing, stated, "Our focus is on supporting the victims and their families, and on ensuring a thorough and professional investigation. It would be irresponsible to comment on unsubstantiated online speculation at this time. We will follow the facts wherever they lead."
International relations experts have cautioned against drawing premature conclusions.
"Jumping to assign blame to a foreign state based solely on a shooter's alleged province of origin is not just reckless, it's dangerous," said Dr. Alisha Reynolds, a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. "It inflames tensions without evidence and can divert critical investigative resources. We must allow the FBI and intelligence community to complete their work."
The incident is likely to intensify the already heated debate in the U.S. over immigration and national security. Officials have scheduled a closed-door briefing for members of the Senate Intelligence Committee later today.
This is a developing story, and further updates are expected as the official investigation progresses.
