Defense Challenges “targeted Attack” Claims in National Guard Shooting

Lawyers for Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, accused of killing a National Guard soldier and wounding another, filed a motion on December 16th to compel prosecutors to provide evidence supporting their claims that the crime was a “targeted attack” and an “ambush.”

“Despite these characterizations, the government has offered no motive evidence for the charged offenses. In fact,all known evidence of Mr. Lakanwal’s allegiances shows his solidarity with U.S. military personnel,” the motion states.

lakanwal, recovering from injuries sustained in what authorities describe as a brazen daylight attack on two National Guard members, pleaded not guilty through an Arabic interpreter during a brief court appearance on December 2nd.

One soldier, Specialist First Class Joshua Signor, was killed in the shooting. The other soldier sustained non-life-threatening injuries.The incident occured while the soldiers were on duty in Baltimore, Maryland.

The defense motion further argues that the prosecution’s narrative relies heavily on speculation and lacks concrete evidence. They request all evidence related to any alleged motive, including any statements made by witnesses or investigators suggesting a targeted attack.

Lakanwal remains in custody pending further court proceedings. the case has drawn significant attention due to the initial claims of a deliberate attack on military personnel. A hearing on the defense motion is scheduled for January.