Israeli Embassy Staff Shot Outside Capital Jewish Museum in DC
Two Israeli embassy staffers who were about to be engaged were tragically shot outside an event at the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, DC, on Wednesday night by a suspect who shouted, “Free, free Palestine” as he was apprehended, officials confirmed.
The shooting occurred as the couple was leaving the museum event around 9 p.m., with the suspect, identified as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez from Chicago, being taken into custody after the incident.
According to DC Metro Police Chief Pamela Smith, the alleged gunman shouted, “Free, Free Palestine” as he was being arrested. The suspect, who was apprehended by event security, was seen acting suspiciously outside the museum before the shooting.
The victims, who have not been identified, were connected to the Israeli embassy, with the boyfriend planning to propose to his girlfriend in Jerusalem next week.
The shooting led to a wave of condolences and outrage, with Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser expressing solidarity with the victims and denouncing terrorism. Israeli Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon called the incident “a depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism.”
President Trump, FBI Director Kash Patel, and other officials also condemned the violence and offered prayers and support for the victims and their families.
The shooting, which occurred near the FBI field office and the US attorney’s office, is being investigated by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, with a focus on potential ties to terrorism or hate crimes.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to bring justice to the victims and their families, while emphasizing the importance of standing against antisemitism and violence.
The tragic incident comes amid a rise in antisemitism following recent events in the Middle East, with law enforcement agencies committed to providing support and resources to address such hate-fueled crimes.
