Two staff members of the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C., were shot and killed Wednesday night outside the Capital Jewish Museum as an event hosted by the American Jewish Committee was taking place inside, according to law enforcement officials and government sources.
The shooting occurred around 9:05 p.m. local time near the intersection of 3rd and F Streets NW, a busy area close to tourist attractions and the FBI’s Washington field office.
The victims, identified as a man and a woman, were gunned down as they exited the museum following the event.
According to Israeli Ambassador to the United States Yechiel Leiter, the two were a couple on the verge of engagement. The man had recently purchased an engagement ring and planned to propose in Jerusalem next week.
Witnesses and officials report that the suspect, identified as Elias Rodriguez, a 30-year-old from Chicago, was seen pacing outside the venue before approaching a group and opening fire.
The shooter was quickly apprehended by security personnel after entering the museum. As he was taken into custody, Rodriguez reportedly shouted, “Free Palestine,” according to multiple law enforcement officials.
Authorities have not disclosed a motive, but Israeli and U.S. officials have strongly condemned the attack.
Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, called it a “vile act of anti-Semitic terrorism” and urged decisive action against those responsible.
U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem described the killings as “senseless” and vowed that the perpetrator would be brought to justice.
President Donald Trump also condemned the violence, attributing it to antisemitism and calling for an end to hatred and radicalism in the United States.
The American Jewish Committee, which was hosting the event, expressed its devastation at the tragedy, stating that its focus remains on supporting those affected and their families.
The Israeli embassy confirmed that its ambassador was not present at the scene and is cooperating with law enforcement in the ongoing investigation.
