wo Israeli embassy staff members were shot and killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday night. The 2 were leaving a public event at the museum when the shooting occurred. The incident took place near the FBI’s Washington field office.
Suspect Identified and Arrested
The suspect, identified as Elias Rodriguez, 30, of Chicago, was detained at the scene by event security. According to police reports, Rodriguez shouted “Free, free Palestine” after his arrest. Authorities recovered the firearm used in the attack and confirmed he acted alone. The two were identified as Yaron Lischinsky, and Sarah Milgrim. Both were employed by the Israeli embassy.
Security and Threat Assessment
Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith stated that there were no prior warnings or specific threats against the museum or the embassy staff. Rodriguez was not listed on any security watchlist, and no elevated threat level had been reported before the shooting.
Federal Response
The FBI is assisting the Metropolitan Police Department in the investigation. FBI Director Kash Patel said his team has been briefed and is coordinating with local authorities. US Attorney General Pam Bondi and US Attorney Jeanine Pirro were present at the scene and in communication with former President Donald Trump throughout the night.
Reactions from Officials
Trump condemned the killings in a post on Truth Social, calling them “obviously based on antisemitism” and demanded an end to hatred and radicalism. Israeli President Isaac Herzog described the incident as “a despicable act of hatred and antisemitism” and expressed support for the embassy staff.
DC Mayor Muriel Bowser assured residents that there is no ongoing threat and emphasized that acts of violence and hate will not be tolerated. She said the city will remain united in confronting antisemitism and supporting affected communities.
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