Two members of Israel’s embassy staff were fatally shot outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday night, in what the FBI is investigating as a targeted and potentially antisemitic attack.
The victims—identified by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar as Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim—were attending a Jewish community event hosted by the American Jewish Committee (AJC) when they were gunned down just outside the venue. The pair, who were reportedly in a relationship and planning to get engaged, were not diplomats but served in support roles at the embassy. Lischinsky was a political researcher, and Milgrim coordinated U.S. missions to Israel.
“This was a horrific terrorist attack, fueled by antisemitic hatred that has only intensified since October 7,” said Sa’ar at a Thursday morning press conference. “I have warned for months that violence like this was coming.”
Authorities confirmed the arrest of the suspect, 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez of Chicago, who was taken into custody at the scene after attempting to enter the building where the event was being held. According to law enforcement, Rodriguez was stopped by security and shortly after his arrest began chanting “Free, free Palestine,” and admitted to his involvement in the shooting. He later directed police to where he had discarded the firearm, which was subsequently recovered.
Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino confirmed that the shooting occurred near the bureau’s Washington Field Office and is being investigated as a likely targeted act of violence. “Our agents responded immediately,” Bongino said. “We’re working with Metro Police and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to determine next steps. All signs suggest this was an intentional act.”
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser condemned the violence and offered reassurance to the local Jewish community. “There is no ongoing threat,” she said. “But let me be clear: violence, terrorism, and antisemitism have no place in our city. We will stand united against hate.”
Emergency calls about the shooting began around 9:08 p.m., according to D.C. Police Chief Pamela Smith. Responders arrived to find two victims—one man and one woman—outside the museum. One was pronounced dead at the scene; the other was transported in critical condition and later died at the hospital.
The attack has drawn national attention. President Donald Trump responded to the news on Truth Social, calling the killings “obviously based on antisemitism” and writing: “These horrible D.C. killings must end, NOW! Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the USA. Condolences to the families. God Bless You ALL!”
The FBI and Metropolitan Police are continuing to investigate the motive behind the shooting. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether either victim held dual U.S.-Israeli citizenship.
The incident has reignited concerns over rising antisemitism in the United States, particularly amid the backdrop of heightened tensions surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict. Jewish advocacy groups have called for increased security measures and broader efforts to combat hate-fueled violence.