Two Israeli diplomats were shot dead outside a Washington D.C. museum during a diplomatic event. The suspect was detained after shouting pro-Palestinian slogans. FBI and Capitol Police are investigating.
A tragic and targeted shooting has left two Israeli embassy staff members dead outside the Capital Jewish Museum in downtown Washington D.C. late on Sunday, May 19, prompting a massive investigation by multiple federal and local agencies.
The victims—a man and a woman—were reportedly shot at close range as they exited an event hosted by the American Jewish Committee’s DC Young Professional Board, attended by various diplomatic figures. The shooting occurred around 9:15 p.m., according to official sources.
🇮🇱 Victims Confirmed as Israeli Embassy Staff
ABC News correspondent Beatrice Peterson confirmed through multiple sources that both victims were part of Israel’s diplomatic staff. A spokesperson for the Israeli Embassy later verified their status and offered a statement:
“We have full faith in law enforcement authorities on both the local and federal levels to apprehend the shooter and protect Israel’s representatives and Jewish communities throughout the United States,” said Tal Naim Cohen, spokesperson for the Israeli Embassy in Washington.
🚨 Suspect Identified and Arrested
Authorities identified the shooter as Elias Rodriguez, a resident of Chicago, IL. According to eyewitness reports and law enforcement statements, Rodriguez shouted “Free Free Palestine” as he was taken into custody at the scene.
A firearm was found near the crime scene, and Rodriguez is now in custody as officials pursue murder charges and investigate possible terror-related motives.
💬 Reaction from Officials and Organizations
The incident has drawn swift and somber responses from U.S. and Israeli officials:
- US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem posted on X:
“Two Israeli Embassy staff were senselessly killed tonight near the Jewish Museum in Washington DC. Please pray for the families of the victims. We will bring this depraved perpetrator to justice.” - Ted Deutch, CEO of the American Jewish Committee, which hosted the event, said:
“We are devastated that an unspeakable act of violence took place outside the venue… Our attention and our hearts are solely with those who were harmed and their families.”
🕵️ Ongoing Investigation & Campus Lockdowns
A multi-agency response is underway, including:
- Washington D.C. Metropolitan Police Department
- FBI
- US Capitol Police
- Maryland Police Department
Georgetown University’s Capitol campus was placed under temporary lockdown due to the proximity of the incident. A student on site told CBS:
“When we went to leave the cops and security were downstairs and told us we can’t leave.”
The lockdown lasted for over an hour before restrictions were lifted.
⚖️ What’s Next?
Investigators are now examining Rodriguez’s background, possible motives, and any affiliations that could suggest a politically or ideologically motivated attack. The possibility of hate crime charges is also being considered.
Authorities continue to urge the public to remain calm while reaffirming their commitment to protecting diplomatic staff and Jewish communities across the U.S.
This story is developing, and updates will follow as more details emerge.
Also Read: British Woman Claims She Was Set Up After Being Caught With £1.2M of Cannabis in Sri Lanka
Women Caught Engaging in Public Sex Act Near Schoolchildren in Gateshead
Florida Teacher Arrested After Alleged Sexual Relationship With Student Inside School Classroom
Women Caught Engaging in Public Sex Act Near Schoolchildren in Gateshead
For More News follow us
