Two staffers from the Israeli Embassy were shot and killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., in what authorities are investigating as a politically motivated act of violence. The victims, Yaron Lischinsky, 30, and Sarah Milgrim, 26, had just left a diplomatic event when they were gunned down in a targeted attack.
Elias Rodriguez, a 31-year-old man from Chicago, was arrested at the scene and is facing multiple charges, including first-degree murder and the murder of foreign officials. Upon his arrest, Rodriguez allegedly told officers, “I did it for Palestine, I did it for Gaza.” Federal authorities are treating the attack as a potential act of terrorism motivated by antisemitism and political extremism.
Court documents indicate Rodriguez legally purchased the 9mm handgun used in the shooting in 2020. Surveillance footage reportedly shows him firing multiple shots, continuing even after the victims fell to the ground. Investigators say Rodriguez was in Washington, D.C., attending a work-related conference and had no previous criminal record.
The FBI is analyzing a manifesto reportedly authored by Rodriguez, which contains antisemitic rhetoric and references to anti-Israel activism. Law enforcement officials are working to determine whether he had any ties to extremist groups or acted entirely alone.
In the wake of the attack, security has been increased at Jewish institutions across the United States and Canada. Leaders in both the U.S. and Israel have condemned the killings, reaffirming their commitment to fighting antisemitism and protecting diplomatic personnel.
This incident comes at a time of heightened global tension, particularly related to conflicts in the Middle East. Authorities warn that online radicalization and international propaganda can quickly escalate into real-world violence.
Rodriguez is scheduled for a preliminary court hearing on June 18. If convicted, he could face the death penalty or life in prison. The investigation remains ongoing as officials seek to understand the full extent of his motivations and planning.
This attack serves as a sobering reminder of how geopolitical tensions can fuel hate on American soil. It emphasizes the importance of securing public spaces and confronting extremist ideologies before they lead to tragedy.
