Elias Rodriguez, a 31-year-old Chicago resident, has been charged with the murders of Israeli Embassy staffers Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim, following a shooting outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. The incident occurred on the evening of May 21, 2025, as the couple was leaving a diplomatic reception hosted by the American Jewish Committee. Rodriguez allegedly opened fire, fatally shooting both victims, and was apprehended at the scene.
According to court documents, Rodriguez shouted “Free, free Palestine” during his arrest and later told authorities, “I did it for Palestine, I did it for Gaza.” He faces multiple charges, including two counts of first-degree murder and the murder of foreign officials—a federal offense that carries the possibility of the death penalty. Interim U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro stated that the case is being investigated as a hate crime and an act of terrorism.
The victims, Lischinsky, 30, and Milgrim, 26, were both staff members at the Israeli Embassy and were reportedly planning to become engaged during an upcoming trip to Jerusalem. Their deaths have prompted widespread condemnation from international leaders and have raised concerns about rising antisemitism and political violence.
Authorities are also investigating a manifesto allegedly authored by Rodriguez, which surfaced online shortly after the attack. The document reportedly criticizes the Gaza conflict and calls for armed demonstrations, further indicating a politically and ideologically driven motive.
The investigation is ongoing, with federal and local agencies examining Rodriguez’s background and potential connections to extremist groups. The next court hearing is scheduled for June
This incident has led to increased security measures at Israeli missions worldwide and has intensified discussions about the safety of diplomatic personnel amid global tensions.
