Israeli Embassy Staffers Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim Killed in D.C. Shooting; Suspect Elias Rodriguez in Custody

Washington, D.C. — May 22, 2025

In a harrowing incident that has sent shockwaves through diplomatic and Jewish communities worldwide, two staff members of the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C., were shot and killed Wednesday night outside the Capital Jewish Museum. Authorities have identified the suspect as Elias Rodriguez, a 30-year-old man from Chicago, who is now in custody and facing potential hate crime and terrorism-related charges.

The victims, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, were a couple who worked at the embassy and were reportedly planning to get engaged next week. Both were active in public diplomacy and had recently participated in cultural and interfaith initiatives across the capital.

The Attack

The shooting occurred around 9:15 p.m. as a small group, including the victims, exited an event at the Capital Jewish Museum. According to D.C. police and eyewitness accounts, Rodriguez approached the group and opened fire without warning, striking Lischinsky and Milgrim at close range. Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene.

Rodriguez then entered the museum, where security personnel detained him until law enforcement arrived. Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with some initially believing Rodriguez was a victim before realizing he was the shooter.

Suspect’s Statements and Investigation

During his arrest, Rodriguez reportedly shouted, “Free, free Palestine,” and claimed responsibility for the shooting. Washington Police Chief Pamela Smith confirmed that Rodriguez also told police where he had discarded the weapon used in the attack.

“These utterances, along with evidence gathered at the scene, suggest the motive was politically and ideologically driven,” Chief Smith stated. “We are treating this as a possible hate-motivated attack and are working closely with federal authorities, including the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security.”

While Rodriguez’s full background has not yet been released, sources close to the investigation say he had recently posted inflammatory anti-Israel content on social media. Officials are now examining whether he had any ties to extremist groups or had been radicalized online.

Reactions from Officials and the Community

Israeli and U.S. leaders have condemned the attack in the strongest terms.

Yechiel Leiter, Israel’s Ambassador to the U.S., expressed deep grief at the loss:

“Yaron and Sarah were not only committed diplomats but warm, compassionate individuals who represented the best of Israel. They were about to begin a new chapter together. Instead, we are planning their funerals.”

At the United Nations, Israel’s U.N. Ambassador Gilad Erdan called the shooting a “depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism,” urging the international community to take stronger action against rising hatred.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken issued a statement expressing condolences and reaffirming that the safety of foreign diplomats on American soil is a “top priority.”

“This senseless violence will not go unanswered. We are working closely with our Israeli counterparts to ensure justice is done.”

Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser assured residents there was no ongoing threat to the public. “This was a targeted act, and the suspect is in custody. Our city stands in solidarity with our Israeli allies and the Jewish community.”

A City in Mourning

Outside the Capital Jewish Museum on Thursday morning, mourners gathered to place candles, flowers, and handwritten notes at a makeshift memorial. A public vigil is scheduled for Thursday evening, with leaders from Washington’s Jewish, Christian, and Muslim communities expected to speak in a show of unity.

Rabbi Leah Goldstein, who had worked closely with both victims, described the pair as “peacebuilders and bridge-makers” who devoted their lives to cultural exchange and interfaith dialogue.

“They believed in peace, in mutual respect, in kindness,” she said. “This is not just a loss for Israel—it is a loss for humanity.”

Ongoing Investigation

Rodriguez remains in federal custody and is expected to appear before a judge later this week. Prosecutors are preparing to charge him with two counts of first-degree murder, as well as federal hate crime and terrorism charges, depending on the outcome of the ongoing investigation.

Authorities are continuing to gather evidence, including digital records and surveillance footage, as they seek to understand whether Rodriguez acted alone or was influenced or encouraged by external actors.

A Broader Concern

The killings come amid heightened tensions globally, with a noted uptick in anti-Semitic rhetoric and violence following recent conflict in the Middle East. Jewish institutions in major cities around the world, including Washington, D.C., have increased security measures in recent weeks.

Community leaders are calling for unity, vigilance, and calm as the investigation unfolds.

“We must confront hatred wherever it appears,” said Ambassador Leiter. “But we must also continue to live, to love, and to hope—just as Yaron and Sarah did.”