Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Two Israeli Embassy Staff Killed in Targeted Shooting Outside D.C. Jewish Museum

Authorities are investigating the attack as a potential hate crime and act of terrorism after the suspect, now in custody, reportedly chanted anti-Israel slogans.

The Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. (Getty Images)
Image
Image

Overview

  • Two Israeli embassy staff members, a man and a woman who were about to be engaged, were fatally shot outside the Capital Jewish Museum during a community event on Wednesday night.
  • The suspect, identified as Elias Rodriguez, 30, of Chicago, was detained by event security after entering the museum and chanting 'Free, free Palestine.'
  • The FBI and Metropolitan Police are investigating the incident as a potential hate crime and act of terrorism, with no ongoing threat to public safety confirmed by officials.
  • The victims were attending the American Jewish Committee's Young Diplomats Reception, an event aimed at fostering unity and celebrating Jewish heritage.
  • U.S. and Israeli leaders, including Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Ambassador Danny Danon, have condemned the attack as an anti-Semitic act of terrorism and vowed swift justice.