Shooting Near Holocaust Museum in Washington

A shooting near the Holocaust Museum in Washington resulted in the deaths of two Israeli embassy employees.

At 9 p.m. last Wednesday, May 21, a shooting occurred near the Holocaust Museum in Washington. According to police statements, two Israeli embassy employees were killed in the shooting. The victims had just exited a ceremony at the museum when they were struck by gunfire.

According to a statement from the Israeli embassy spokesperson in Washington, the two employees were shot at close range and lost their lives. Pamela Smith, Washington D.C. Police Chief, stated that the suspect in the shooting has been arrested, and based on initial assessment, the suspect’s identity has been confirmed as Elias Rodriguez, 30, from Chicago.

She also stated that the suspect was observed walking outside the museum before the shooting, and while being arrested, he chanted “Free, free Palestine.” The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Washington police announced that an investigation into the shooting has been launched.

Donald Trump, while expressing condolences to the victims’ families, described the shooting as antisemitic and posted a message on social media saying: “These horrific murders in Washington that are clearly being committed based on antisemitism must stop right now! Hate and radicalism have no place in the United States of America.”

Danny Danon, Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations, while calling the shooting an antisemitic terrorist act, said: “The victims were a young couple on the verge of engagement and marriage.”

Dan Bongino, Deputy Director of the FBI, also wrote about this terrorist shooting: “Initial indicators suggest that this act of violence was targeted.”

According to an eyewitness account from someone present at the Holocaust Museum ceremony, the event was related to humanitarian assistance. 

Pamela Smith, Washington D.C. Police Chief, stated: “The perpetrator had no prior criminal record or cases that would draw police attention. Our anti-terrorism unit is cooperating with the FBI to review all of the suspect’s background. After his arrest and while handcuffed, Elias told us where he disposed of his weapon. The weapon was found and is currently in police custody. Rodriguez also confessed to his crime.”

Isaac Herzog, President of Israel, while expressing regret over the incident, wrote on social media platform X: “This is a hateful act stemming from antisemitism. Our hearts are with the families of the victims of this attack and our prayers are with the wounded. We declare our full support for the staff of the Israeli embassy and stand alongside the Jewish community in America. America and Israel will remain united in defending our people and shared values. Terrorism and hatred will not defeat us.”