Two Israeli Embassy staff members were shot and killed Wednesday night outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., in what officials are calling a tragic act of antisemitic violence.
The victims, described as a young couple who were soon to be engaged, were attending a Jewish community event when a gunman opened fire at close range, authorities said. Yechiel Leiter, the Israeli ambassador to the United States, confirmed that the male victim had recently purchased an engagement ring and planned to propose in Jerusalem next week.
“This is a despicable act of hatred, of antisemitism,” said Israeli President Isaac Herzog, who expressed condolences and solidarity with the victims’ families. “The U.S. and Israel will stand united in defense of our people and our shared values.”
Metropolitan Police Department Chief Pamela Smith said the shooter, identified as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez of Chicago, was seen pacing outside the museum before approaching a group of four people. He then produced a handgun and fired multiple shots, striking the two embassy staffers. No other injuries were reported.
Rodriguez was apprehended shortly afterward by museum security after entering the venue. While in custody, he reportedly chanted “Free, Free Palestine” and revealed the location of the discarded weapon, which authorities later recovered.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem called the killings “senseless,” adding that an active investigation is underway. “We are working to gather more information and will share updates as we learn more,” she wrote on X.
The event was being hosted by the American Jewish Committee. Its CEO, Ted Deutch, expressed shock and sorrow: “We are devastated that an unspeakable act of violence took place outside the venue. Our hearts are solely with those who were harmed and their families.”
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, who arrived at the scene along with acting U.S. Attorney for D.C. Jeanine Pirro, said she had briefed President Donald Trump multiple times that evening. Trump later condemned the attack, calling it an “obviously antisemitic” act and demanding an end to hate-fueled violence in the U.S.
The Israeli Embassy confirmed that Ambassador Leiter was not present at the scene during the attack. The names of the victims have not yet been publicly released pending notification of their families.
Authorities continue to investigate the motive and background of the suspect as security is tightened around diplomatic and Jewish sites in the capital.
Written By Rodney Mbua
