WASHINGTON, D.C. — Two Israeli Embassy employees were shot and killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum on Wednesday night in what U.S. officials are calling a targeted antisemitic terrorist attack. The victims, identified as Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, were not diplomats but held staff roles at the Israeli Embassy, according to Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar.
The couple, who were reportedly preparing to get engaged, were exiting a Jewish conference hosted by the American Jewish Committee when they were gunned down. “This is the direct result of toxic antisemitic incitement against Israel and Jews around the world that has intensified since the October 7th massacre,” Sa’ar stated at a Thursday morning press conference.
Lischinsky served as a researcher in the political division of the Israeli Embassy, while Milgrim coordinated American missions to Israel. Their tragic deaths have sparked renewed calls for vigilance and condemnation of hate-driven violence, especially targeting the Jewish community.
The suspect, Elias Rodriguez, 30, of Chicago, was arrested at the scene and remains in custody. Authorities say he opened fire shortly after 9 p.m. as the event at the museum concluded. Witnesses reported Rodriguez shouting “Free, free Palestine” after the attack. D.C. Metro Police Chief Pamela Smith confirmed he attempted to enter the venue but was intercepted by event security.
Rodriguez now faces multiple federal charges, including murder of foreign officials, discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence, and first-degree murder. Officials say the FBI is reviewing written materials allegedly authored by Rodriguez that could offer insight into his motives. Law enforcement has also conducted a court-authorized search at his residence in Chicago.
“This appears to have been a deliberate act of targeted violence,” said FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino, adding that the bureau responded immediately given the attack occurred close to its Washington Field Office. A bureau officer rendered first aid to the victims at the scene.
Israeli Ambassador to the United States, Yechiel Leiter, confirmed that Lischinsky had purchased an engagement ring and planned to propose to Milgrim next week in Jerusalem. “They had their whole lives ahead of them. This attack has shattered families and hearts,” he said.
Leiter noted he received a call from President Donald Trump, who pledged full U.S. support in combatting antisemitism. On his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote, “These horrible D.C. killings, based obviously on antisemitism, must end NOW. Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the USA.”
Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that based on current evidence, Rodriguez acted alone. “This person will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” Bondi vowed.
Katie Kalisher, an attendee at the event, recalled offering Rodriguez water before he pulled a keffiyeh from his backpack and said, “I did this for Gaza. Free Palestine.” Another witness, Yoni Kalin, described Rodriguez as appearing frightened.
Upon arrest, Rodriguez reportedly provided authorities with the location of the weapon, which was recovered shortly afterward. He continued to chant pro-Palestinian slogans while in custody, police said.
Emergency responders arrived shortly after 9:08 p.m., finding both victims unresponsive. At least one was transported to a hospital in critical condition but succumbed to injuries.
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser emphasized that there is no active threat to the public but pledged that the city “will not tolerate terrorism or hate.” She urged unity in the face of antisemitic violence and thanked first responders for their immediate action.
The American Jewish Committee expressed devastation in a statement, saying their “hearts are solely with those harmed and their families.” Ted Deutch, CEO of the AJC, confirmed the event was held in collaboration with the museum.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he was “shocked” by the killings and confirmed he has ordered increased security at all Israeli diplomatic posts worldwide. He spoke with the victims’ families and the ambassador to express condolences and support.
In response to the attack, the Secret Service increased security around the Israeli Embassy and ambassador’s residence in D.C. The NYPD also elevated protection at Jewish and Israeli institutions across New York, a measure officials say will remain indefinitely.
Danny Danon, Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations, called the shooting a “depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism” and warned that violence targeting Jewish communities crosses a global red line.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem assured the public that federal authorities are fully engaged in the investigation. “We will bring this depraved perpetrator to justice,” she posted on X.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris and Doug Emhoff, who has worked to combat antisemitism, issued statements decrying the attack. Emhoff wrote, “May the memory of Yaron and Sarah be a blessing. Jews must be able to gather without fear.”
The Capital Jewish Museum announced it will reopen in the coming days with heightened security measures in place.
