In a gruesome act of violence that shook Washington, DC, police have identified Elias Rodriguez of Chicago, 30, as the suspect in the fatal shooting outside the Capital Jewish Museum on Wednesday. The shooting claimed the lives of two Israeli Embassy employees and sparked widespread outrage over what the government is terming an act of anti-Semitic terrorism.
Police confirmed Rodriguez had no prior encounter with law enforcement. However, his action has caused shockwaves across both local and global communities. Witnesses observed him walking outside the museum before the attack. After the arrest, Elias Rodriguez allegedly chanted, “Free Palestine, Free Palestine,” Washington police chief Pamela Smith said.
The shooting was in the area of 3rd and F streets in Northwest DC, near important federal buildings such as an FBI field office and the US Attorney’s Office. A gun was recovered at the scene. The authorities think the two victims, a man and a woman, were a couple. Tal Naim Cohen, the spokesman for the Israeli embassy, said both were employees and were shot “at close range” while going to a Jewish cultural event at the museum.
Officials Denounce Anti-Semitic Violence
Israel’s United Nations ambassador, Danny Danon, denounced the murders as “a depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism.” He said he had faith in the US government, adding, “I am confident that the U.S. authorities will take strong action against those responsible for this criminal act.”
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem offered her sympathies and committed federal assistance to the ongoing investigation. President Donald Trump, in a Truth Social statement, heavily condemned the attack:
“These terrible D.C. murders, based clearly on antisemitism, must cease, 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 occur! God Bless You ALL!”
Community Demands Accountability
Even though the motive remains a subject of investigation, the initial reports have once again reignited fears of increased hate crimes and concerns over the security of Jewish institutions in the United States.
As federal officials now spearhead the probe, both government authorities and the community alike are urgently demanding swift justice. Moreover, they are calling for effective measures to prevent such acts of violence in the future.
