In a shocking incident that unfolded on a Wednesday evening, two Israeli embassy staff members were tragically killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum in downtown Washington D.C. According to local police, the suspect shouted “free, free Palestine” immediately after the attack, suggesting a possible motive linked to anti-Semitism.
The victims, identified as a young couple, were shot while leaving an event at the museum around 9:05 PM local time. This area is known for its proximity to various tourist attractions, museums, and government buildings, including the FBI's Washington field office. Following the shooting, the perpetrator, later identified as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez from Chicago, attempted to enter the museum but was intercepted by security personnel.
Metropolitan Police Department Chief, Pamela Smith, revealed during a news conference that Rodriguez was observed pacing outside the museum before targeting a group of four individuals, resulting in the death of the couple. The victims' identities have not yet been disclosed to the public.
Israeli Ambassador to the U.S., Yechiel Leiter, expressed his sorrow at the conference, noting that the couple had plans to get engaged. He mentioned that the male victim had purchased an engagement ring earlier that week, intending to propose during an upcoming trip to Jerusalem.
In a statement on social media platform X, U.S. Homeland Security Chief Kristi Noem described the killings as senseless and urged prayers for the victims' families. She vowed that the perpetrator would face justice for this heinous act.
Ambassador Danny Danon, representing Israel at the United Nations, condemned the incident as a depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism, emphasizing that targeting diplomats and the Jewish community is crossing a significant line. He expressed confidence that U.S. authorities would respond decisively against those responsible for this criminal act.
The attack prompted a significant police response, leading to the closure of several main streets in the vicinity. A spokesman for the Israeli embassy confirmed that both victims were shot at close range while attending the museum event, and he expressed trust in local and federal law enforcement to apprehend the shooter.
The Israeli ambassador was reportedly not present at the museum event during the shooting, according to various media outlets. In light of the incident, Georgetown University’s D.C. campus was temporarily placed on lockdown as a precautionary measure. Students recounted being instructed not to leave their buildings while police secured the area.
Former President Donald Trump addressed the tragedy on social media, calling for an end to the “horrible D.C. killings,” which he associated with rising anti-Semitism. He expressed his condolences to the victims' families and lamented the state of violence that has emerged in the capital.
Ted Deutch, CEO of the American Jewish Committee, revealed that his organization was hosting the event where the attack occurred. He expressed devastation over the violence, stating that their focus is on the well-being of those affected.
U.S. Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, labeled the attack a horrific act of terror, emphasizing the profound impact it would have on the Israeli community. Beatrice Gurwitz, Executive Director of the Capital Jewish Museum, noted that Jewish institutions across the U.S. have been increasingly concerned about security due to a rise in anti-Semitic incidents. The museum had recently received funding to enhance its security measures, particularly in light of new exhibits, including one focused on LGBT pride.
As the investigation continues, the community remains in mourning, reflecting on the tragic loss of life and the urgent need for enhanced security and understanding in a climate increasingly marred by violence and intolerance.
