Condition of wounded National Guardsman Andrew Wolfe improving

Dec. 11 (UPI) — The condition of hospitalized U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, one of two National Guard members shot last month in Washington, D.C., was seemingly improving, West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey said Thursday.

During a press conference, the governor remarked that he had “hopeful news” to share about Wolfe, stating the injured soldier is “smiling,” moving more of his right side and is able to sit in a chair for a few hours.

He said the news came from the injured 24-year-old soldier’s mother, Melody Wolfe.

“It’s been reported that his communications improving — although not verbally — which is an important sign for his progress,” he said.

Earlier today, we shared our thoughts about the memory of SPC Beckstrom as well as the status of Ssgt Wolfe’s recovery – please, keep those prayers coming. pic.twitter.com/NhOGAUIEjL— Governor Patrick Morrisey (@wvgovernor) December 11, 2025

Wolfe and Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, 20, were shot Nov. 26 while conducting patrols in Washington, D.C.

Both Wolfe and Beckstrom are National Guardsmen from West Virginia. They were deployed to the nation’s capital as part of President Donald Trump’s use of the military to crack down on crime when they were ambushed.

Beckstrom died from her injuries a day after the shooting.

Rahmanulla Lakanwal, 29, was arrested in connection with the incident and has pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree murder and other related offenses.

Morrisey said Melody, as well as Wolfe’s father, Jason Wolfe, are “optimistic” about their son, while realizing that there is an “intensive” rehabilitation period ahead for him.

Wolfe’s parents appreciate the hospital staff and all the prayers that have been made for their son from across the country, the governor said.

“The only request that Melody and Jason have made is ‘everywhere you go in public setting, please ask for more prayers,'” he said. “And that’s what we’re going to do again today. They’re working, and, I think, mom and dad are grateful for the support that so many West Virginians have shown during this difficult time.”