Two people were killed in what officials are calling a “horrific” antisemitic attack near the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday night. The victims, both Israeli embassy staffers, were shot multiple times outside a Jewish museum after attending a private religious event.
The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez from Chicago, is now in police custody. Authorities believe he acted alone.
According to eyewitnesses, Rodriguez entered the venue, and several people inside offered him a cup of water. One woman described how she looked him in the eye and handed him the water, not knowing he had just shot two people outside. Moments later, she said, he pulled out a keffiyeh scarf, shouted “Free Palestine,” and was quickly arrested by police.
Attorney General Pam Bondi visited the scene shortly after the incident. She confirmed that federal and local law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and ATF, are investigating the attack.
“It was heartbreaking,” Bondi said. “These were two young people with bright futures. One was planning to propose in Israel. Their lives were stolen in an act of pure hate.”
Bondi also said that increased security is now in place at Jewish centers in Washington, D.C., and across the country. “We want our Jewish community to feel safe,” she stated.
While the investigation continues, Bondi declined to comment on whether the suspect was linked to any political group or whether he cooperated with law enforcement. She also didn’t confirm if the case would be treated as a capital murder case but stressed that the facts would be reviewed carefully.
The shooting has sparked outrage and grief within the Jewish community and beyond. Rabbis gathered at the scene to perform a traditional Jewish ritual to collect and bury the victims’ blood.
Bondi said she had been in contact with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former President Donald Trump, who expressed shock and support for the Jewish community.
“This violence has to stop,” Bondi said. “We will make sure justice is served.”
A White House briefing is expected later today, and law enforcement is expected to release more details as the investigation develops.