Two staff members from the Israeli Embassy in Washington, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, were shot and killed Wednesday night as they left an event at the Capital Jewish Museum. Authorities identified the shooter as Elias Rodriguez, 30, of Chicago, who reportedly yelled “Free, free Palestine” during his arrest.
The victims, a young couple soon to be engaged, were gunned down at close range, according to police and embassy officials. The attack occurred during an American Jewish Committee event focused on humanitarian efforts and interfaith cooperation.
Rodriguez was seen loitering outside before opening fire on a group of four people. He then entered the museum and was apprehended by security. Witnesses inside initially mistook him for a distressed attendee seeking help.
The Israeli and U.S. governments swiftly condemned the shooting, calling it a brazen act of antisemitic violence. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog vowed increased security at Israeli diplomatic sites. Former President Donald Trump and U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, also decried the attack, promising justice.
Jewish organizations across the U.S. expressed shock and sorrow. The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington, AJC, and Jewish Federations of North America emphasized the need for heightened community security.
The shooting comes amid rising global antisemitism and tensions linked to Israel’s war with Hamas, which began after the October 7, 2023, terror attacks. Since then, both Jewish institutions and Israeli representatives have faced increased threats.
The FBI is investigating, and Rodriguez remains in custody. No further threats to the public are currently believed to exist.
