Two Israeli embassy staff members were tragically shot and killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday night. The incident occurred around 9:10 p.m. during a Young Diplomats Reception hosted by the American Jewish Committee for young Jewish professionals.
According to D.C. police chief Pamela Smith, the victims were shot at close range by 30-year-old Elias Rodrigues from Chicago, who has since been taken into custody. Witnesses reported that after the shooting, Rodrigues entered the event and requested water and a safe space. He was seen wearing a keffiyeh and reportedly shouted “free Palestine” while in custody.
The FBI stated there is “no ongoing threat to public safety.” Attorney General Pam Bondi and D.C. U.S. Attorney Jeannine Pirro were on the scene shortly after the shooting, which has been described as a “horrible” act of violence.
Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem confirmed the shooting and expressed her condolences, stating that investigations are ongoing. She urged the public to pray for the victims’ families and assured that justice would be served.
Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, condemned the attack as a “depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism.” He emphasized that harming the Jewish community is unacceptable and expressed confidence that U.S. authorities would take strong action against those responsible.
The American Jewish Committee confirmed that their event took place at the museum and expressed devastation over the violence that occurred outside. CEO Ted Deutch stated that their focus is on supporting the victims and their families as more information becomes available.
D.C. police plan to hold a press conference to provide further details about the incident. This tragic event has raised concerns about safety and the rise of anti-Semitic violence, prompting calls for stronger measures to protect communities.