Two employees of the Israeli embassy were fatally shot outside the Capital Jewish Museum in downtown Washington, D.C.
The Metropolitan Police Department identified the suspect as Elias Rodriguez, a 30-year-old from Chicago. Authorities reported that Rodriguez opened fire on a group of four people shortly after 9 p.m. local time, killing a young couple who worked for the Israeli mission. He was captured inside the museum moments later after being stopped by security personnel.
At a late-night press briefing, Police Chief Pamela Smith said the suspect shouted “Free, free Palestine” upon arrest. Officials believe the shooting was intentional, although it remains unclear whether Rodriguez had any links to extremist groups.
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The victims, whose names have not been disclosed, were described as a young couple planning to get engaged. Israeli Ambassador to the U.S., Yechiel Leiter, shared that the male victim had recently bought an engagement ring and intended to propose on an upcoming trip to Jerusalem.
“This is a heartbreaking loss,” Ambassador Leiter said. “They were full of hope and life.”
The attack took place in a heavily secured area of the capital, surrounded by museums, federal offices, and the FBI’s Washington field office. The shooting led to a significant police response, with multiple streets in downtown Washington blocked off and a brief lockdown at nearby Georgetown University.
Eyewitnesses reported panic and confusion as shots were fired. Katie Kalisher, attending the same event, said, “We heard gunfire and saw a man enter the museum looking distressed.”
While authorities have yet to officially confirm a motive, both U.S. and Israeli officials have described the incident as an antisemitic attack.
U.S. President Donald Trump condemned the shooting in a Truth Social post, calling for an end to “these horrible D.C. killings” rooted in antisemitism. He emphasized that hatred and radicalism have no place in America.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio also denounced the violence as a “brazen act of cowardly, antisemitic violence” and promised justice for the victims.
In Jerusalem, Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed his devastation, calling the attack a “despicable act of hatred and antisemitism.” He extended his condolences to the victims’ families and stressed that America and Israel stand united against terror and hatred.
The Capital Jewish Museum, the site of the attack, had recently received federal funding to enhance security due to rising antisemitic threats. Beatrice Gurwitz, the museum’s executive director, told NBC News that Jewish institutions nationwide are increasingly facing security challenges.
“We understand the risks connected to our mission and exhibits,” Gurwitz said. “Our priority remains to provide a safe and welcoming environment for all visitors.”
An Israeli embassy spokesperson confirmed that two staff members were shot at close range but reassured that no other diplomats, including the ambassador, were harmed.
“We trust local and federal law enforcement to protect Israel’s representatives and the Jewish community across the U.S.,” said embassy spokesman Tal Naim Cohen.
Federal authorities have taken over the investigation, and the suspect remains in custody. No further details about his background or motives have been released.
The shooting has heightened concerns within the U.S. Jewish community, with leaders calling for increased vigilance and unity against growing threats.
JoJo Kalin, a board member of the American Jewish Committee and event organizer, said, “We will not be intimidated. This tragedy reminds us how crucial it is to continue advocating for peace, dialogue, and security for everyone.”
