DC Shooting Near Jewish Museum: Israeli Embassy Staff Among Victims, Elias Rodriguez Named Suspect

Chicago resident Elias Rodriguez, 30, has been named as the culprit in Wednesday's fatal shooting incident close to the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, DC. His identity was verified by law enforcement, who also said that he had never interacted with them before the incident.

Two people, a man and a woman, were killed in the shooting near 3rd and F Streets in the Northwest section of the city. The U.S. Attorney's office, the local FBI field office, and the museum are all nearby. Officials said the victims were thought to be a couple who were at the museum for an event at the time of the incident.

Rodriguez was observed pacing outside the venue before the shooting, according to the authorities. He was arrested shortly after, according to police, and a weapon was found at the site. The defendant yelled "Free Palestine, Free Palestine" while being held in jail, according to Washington Police Chief Pamela Smith.

Two Israeli embassy employees were shot at close range while attending the Jewish museum event, according to official Tal Naim Cohen of the Israeli embassy in Washington.

"A depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism," referred to Israeli Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon, denounced the attack on X. In response to the killings, he said he was certain that U.S. officials would act decisively.

The relatives of the victims received condolences from U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who also pledged full federal support for the continuing investigation.

On Truth Social, President Donald Trump also discussed the issue and vehemently denounced the assault. "These terrible murders in D.C., which are clearly motivated by antisemitism, must stop immediately! The USA is not a place for radicalism or hatred. Sending condolences to the victims' families. How tragic that such occurrences can occur! All of you are blessed, he wrote.

The reason for the shooting is still being looked into.