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FBI Investigating Fatal Shooting Of Israeli Embassy Staffers In D.C.

Mayor of Washington DC Muriel Bowser and Chief Pamela A. Smith / Screenshot

The suspect in Wednesday night’s fatal shooting of two Israeli Embassy employees in Washington, D.C., has been identified as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez of Chicago. Police say Rodriguez shot and killed Yaron Lischinsky, an Israeli, and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, an American, outside the Capital Jewish Museum.

The two victims were a couple, and Lischinsky had planned to propose next week in Jerusalem, according to Israel’s ambassador to the U.S. Authorities say Rodriguez shouted “Free, free Palestine” during his arrest, and the FBI is investigating the attack as a potential hate crime.

Police said Rodriguez was seen pacing outside before opening fire and later surrendered inside the museum. The victims, described as being “in the prime of their lives,” were mourned by Israel’s diplomatic staff.

President Trump called the attack “horrible” and “based obviously on antisemitism,” urging an end to hatred and radicalism. The suspect remains in custody as the investigation continues.

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