In a shocking act of violence, a man opened fire outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, DC, late Wednesday evening, resulting in the deaths of two Israeli embassy employees. The victims, a young man and woman, were leaving the museum around 9 pm when the attack occurred.
According to Washington Police Chief Pamela Smith, the suspect was observed pacing near the museum before approaching a group of four people. He then produced a handgun and fired, striking both victims. The suspect subsequently entered the museum, where he was quickly detained by security personnel.
During his arrest, the suspect was heard chanting, “Free, free Palestine,” sparking fears of an anti-Semitic motive behind the attack. He has been tentatively identified as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez from Chicago.
Chief Smith emphasized that there was no prior intelligence or warning signs indicating an imminent attack, stating, “Had we received any information, we would have heightened security around our city.” The police remain investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Yechiel Leiter, the Israeli ambassador to the United States, described the victims as a young couple. “The young man had purchased a ring this week with the intention of proposing to his girlfriend,” he shared. “They were a beautiful couple enjoying an evening in Washington’s cultural hub.”
US President Donald Trump responded to the incident on Truth Social, condemning the violence and emphasizing the fight against antisemitism. “These horrible DC killings, based obviously on antisemitism, must end, NOW!” he wrote, calling hatred and radicalism “a poison that has no place in the USA.” Trump also expressed condolences to the victims’ families.
The CEO of the American Jewish Committee, Ted Deutch, also issued a statement. “We are devastated that an unspeakable act of violence took place outside the venue,” he said, noting that the attack occurred during an event hosted by the organization.
As authorities continue their investigation, the community mourns the loss of the young victims and calls for action to combat hate and violence targeting Jewish communities and others.
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