Two staff members of the Israeli Embassy in Washington, DC, were shot dead Wednesday night near the Capital Jewish Museum, officials confirmed. The victims, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim, were a young couple about to be engaged and were leaving an event at the museum when the shooting occurred. The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez from Chicago, was apprehended at the scene after reportedly firing at a group of four individuals and then entering the museum. Witnesses said Rodriguez shouted “Free, free Palestine” upon his arrest.
Authorities believe Rodriguez acted alone and have stated there is no ongoing threat. The FBI and Metropolitan Police Department are conducting a joint investigation. The shooting took place near the intersection of 3rd and F Streets NW, close to the FBI field office and other federal buildings.
The incident has been widely condemned by officials from both the United States and Israel. U.S. President Donald Trump described the attack as “so sad” and motivated by antisemitism, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered increased security for Israeli diplomatic missions worldwide. Israeli officials labeled the attack a reprehensible act of anti-Semitic terrorism.
The shooting occurred amid heightened tensions related to Israel’s military offensive in Gaza and the resulting humanitarian crisis. The victims were attending a “Young Diplomats Reception” hosted by the American Jewish Committee, an event aimed at fostering unity among Jewish young professionals and diplomats.
The Israeli Embassy expressed profound sorrow over the loss, describing the couple as being “in the prime of their lives.” The embassy and U.S. authorities continue to support the victims’ families as the investigation proceeds.
