Suspect arrested in shooting at Capitol Jewish Museum
Two staffers from Israeli embassy killed
WASHINGTON (Gray DC) - A gunman killed two staff of the Israeli Embassy in Washington D.C. The shooting happened Wednesday night following an event at the Jewish museum in the Nation’s Capital.
The Israeli Embassy staffers were leaving an event for young diplomats here outside the Capital Jewish Museum when the gunman opened fire outside the museum. A short while later, the suspect was yelling “Free Palestine” as police took him into custody.
The FBI believes this was an act of targeted violence.
Police have identified the gunman as 31-year-old Chicago resident Elias Rodriguez. He was seen pacing outside the event before approaching a group of four people with a hand gun.
The two victims have been identified as 30-year-old Yaron Lischinsky and 26-year-old Sarah Milgrim. According to the Israel ambassador, t he couple was soon to be engaged.
President Donald Trump posted a statement to social media stating, “These horrible D.C. killings – based obviously on antisemitism – must end now! Hatred and radicalism have no place in the U.S.A."
The American Jewish Committee put the event on. CEO Ted Deutch says the focus had been on peace in the Middle East. “Last night, really our worst fears came true. This was an event, it’s an event we all look forward to every year. This year the focus was on humanitarian diplomacy. It was on ways to work together in an interfaith way across the region.”
Police have already interrogated Rodriguez.
Local and federal authorities will work together on the investigation. Rodriguez is expected in federal court later Thursday.
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