A pro-Palestinian man has been taken into custody after allegedly killing two Israeli embassy staff members who were leaving an event at the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday night, according to authorities.
The Embassy of Israel to the U.S. confirmed the two victims were Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim, who were reportedly engaged to be married.
Steven Jensen, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Washington Field Office, described the incident as a “heinous crime” that would be investigated for potential hate crime motivations and any ties to terrorism.
The suspect, identified as Elias Rodriguez, a 31-year-old man from Chicago, is believed to have acted alone. He is currently in custody and his firearm has been recovered by authorities.
In the wake of the shooting, FBI agents are reviewing writings that they believe may belong to Rodriguez. Furthermore, state, local, and federal agencies are conducting searches on his apartment in Chicago.
Metropolitan Police Department Chief Pamela Smith stated that officers responded to multiple reports of a shooting near the museum at approximately 9:08 p.m. When they arrived, they found both victims unconscious and not breathing. Despite efforts from first responders, they were pronounced dead at the scene.
Smith revealed that preliminary investigations indicated Rodriguez was seen pacing outside the museum before approaching a group of four people, which included Lischinsky and Milgrim, and he allegedly began shooting at them.
After the attack, Rodriguez reportedly entered the museum where he was apprehended by event security. During his detention, he reportedly shouted, “Free, free Palestine!”
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser condemned the shooting as “horrific,” assuring the community that there was no ongoing threat and emphasizing that the city would not tolerate such acts of violence or hate, stating, “We will not tolerate antisemitism.”
Tal Naim Cohen, a spokesperson for the Israeli embassy, confirmed that the two diplomats were shot at close range while leaving an event hosted by the American Jewish Committee (AJC).
The event had brought together young Jewish professionals in foreign policy and focused on discussions regarding humanitarian solutions for Gaza.
In a statement, the Israeli Embassy expressed their profound grief, noting that Lischinsky and Milgrim were “in the prime of their lives” and condemned the act as a terrorist attack.
Katie Kalisher, a witness who was present at the museum that night, recounted encountering Rodriguez prior to his arrest. She described how he appeared distressed and had requested someone call the police after hearing gunshots.
Kalisher asked Rodriguez if he liked the museum, to which he feigned ignorance, asking, “What kind of museum is this?” After they discussed the gunshots, Rodriguez allegedly reached into his bag and pulled out a kaffiyeh, stating, “I did it. I did this for Gaza” before shouting his support for Palestine.
Another witness, Yoni Kalin, highlighted the irony that the event was focused on creating humanitarian solutions to aid Gaza, noting the tragic contrast of the discussion taking place within the museum and the violent act occurring outside.
JoJo Kalin, who helped organize the event, described her interaction with Rodriguez. Initially unaware of his involvement in the shooting, she offered him water after hearing about the gunfire and soon discovered the true nature of his actions.
According to various witnesses, there was a moment of empathy shown toward Rodriguez from those in the museum, as they sought to provide care without realizing he was the perpetrator of such a violent crime.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that the Department of Homeland Security is actively investigating the incident and gathering more information.
Danny Danon, Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations, called the shooting a “depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism,” affirming that harming diplomats and the Jewish community is intolerable.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his outrage over the murders of the two embassy employees, vowing to increase security measures for Israeli missions worldwide and for its representatives.
As investigations continue, emotions remain high amid a global climate where antisemitism is on the rise. Officials and community leaders are calling for justice and raising awareness about the dangers of hate-fueled violence.
This incident has amplified discussions around the implications of political conflicts and the need for dialogue aimed at preventing future tragedies.
The victims’ families are receiving support from the Israeli embassy as they navigate this devastating loss. The embassy’s statement underscored their commitment to standing by the families during this tragic period.
Overall, the events that unfolded at the Capital Jewish Museum have stirred deep emotions and conversations, reflecting both the fragility of peace and the enduring quest for understanding among diverse communities.
image source from：https://www.foxnews.com/us/two-israeli-diplomats-shot-killed-event-capital-jewish-museum-washington-dc
