A tragic shooting outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., has left two Israeli embassy staff members dead and the nation reeling from what officials are calling a targeted, anti-Semitic attack. Authorities have identified 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez of Chicago as the suspected gunman.
The shooting occurred on Wednesday near the intersection of 3rd and F Streets NW, a location just steps from the museum, the FBI’s local field office, and the U.S. Attorney’s office. A man and woman—believed to be a couple—were shot at close range and succumbed to their injuries at the scene.
Washington Police Chief Pamela Smith confirmed that Rodriguez was taken into custody shortly after the shooting. “The suspect was seen pacing near the museum before the event,” she said. After being detained, Rodriguez allegedly shouted: “Free Palestine, Free Palestine,” according to authorities.
Officials have stated that Rodriguez had no prior contact with law enforcement, and a firearm was recovered at the scene. Investigators are continuing to probe the motive behind the attack.
The victims, confirmed as staff members of the Israeli embassy, were attending a Jewish heritage event at the museum. Tal Naim Cohen, a spokesperson for the embassy, confirmed the details: “Two of our staff members were shot at close range while attending a Jewish event at the museum.”
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation.
Calling the shooting a “depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism,” Israel’s Ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, posted on X (formerly Twitter): “I am confident that the U.S. authorities will take strong action against those responsible for this criminal act.”
U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem also expressed condolences to the victims’ families and pledged full federal support for the ongoing investigation.
Former President Donald Trump responded to the shooting in a message on Truth Social: “These horrible D.C. killings, based obviously on antisemitism, must end, NOW! Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the USA. Condolences to the families of the victims. So sad that such things as this can happen! God Bless You ALL!”
