Federal prosecutors announced on Tuesday their intention to seek the death penalty against Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the Afghan national charged in connection with a shooting that left one National Guard member dead and another critically injured in Washington, D.C., last year.

Lakanwal, 29, appeared in federal court wearing an orange jumpsuit and sporting a notably longer beard than previously seen in official images. Prosecutors revealed that he faces additional charges, which include counts carrying the possibility of a capital sentence if he is convicted. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Tortorice stated that the Department of Justice would commence a formal review process for several of the death-eligible charges.

The incident occurred the day before Thanksgiving, during which Lakanwal himself sustained injuries. During the court appearance, he was observed muttering to himself at times.

While prosecutors maintain they have fulfilled evidence disclosure obligations, defense attorneys disputed this claim, asserting that “almost no mitigation evidence” has been provided. They also said that details concerning Lakanwal’s prior work for the U.S. government have not been disclosed.

The case continues to unfold as the legal teams prepare for proceedings that will determine whether the death penalty will be pursued and, ultimately, if it will be imposed.