Two Israeli embassy employees were killed in a shooting on Wednesday evening outside an event hosted by the American Jewish Committee at the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., which is just about a mile away from the White House and U.S. Capitol.
Ted Deutch, the CEO of AJC, stated in a release, “We are devastated that an unspeakable act of violence took place outside the venue.” He stated that at this time, focus is on those who have been hurt and their families as they await more information from the police about what happened.
Local time saw officials providing preliminary information about the assault, including details about the victims, the suspect who is in police custody, and ongoing investigations. At this point, there is no active threat, officials said.
Who were the victims?
The shooting, which happened in the vicinity of 3rd and F Street NW, claimed the lives of a man and a woman. Israeli embassy employees were also among the wounded. Others were hurt. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that the two killed were “Israeli Embassy staff.” Israel’s ambassador to the U.S., Yechiel Leiter, stated that the victims were a young couple about to be engaged who were attending the event as guests.
What do we know about the suspect?
According to D.C. police chief Pamela A. Smith, authorities believe the shooting was carried out by 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez from Chicago.
The suspect was seen pacing back and forth outside the museum before approaching a group of four people, pulling out a handgun, and opening fire, according to Smith. The suspect admitted to being the shooter after claiming to be a witness and stated “Free, free Palestine” before being detained by event security.
How has Israel reacted?
The Israeli U.N. ambassador, Danny Danon, referred to the shooting as “a depraved act of antisemitic terrorism” on social media. He expressed confidence that the U.S. authorities will take strong action against those accountable. Leiter stated at a briefing that the people of Israel and the United States will not be afraid and will work to overcome the moral depravity of those seeking political gain through murder.
How has the U.S. responded?
President Donald Trump stated on social media, “These horrible D.C. killings, based obviously on antisemitism, must end NOW! Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the USA.” At the briefing, Leitner stated that Trump assured him that his administration would do everything possible to combat and end antisemitism.
Investigation Status:
At the briefing, Steve Jensen, the assistant director in charge at the FBI’s Washington Field Office, stated that the FBI is investigating “ties to potential terrorism or motivation based on a bias-based crime or a hate crime.” D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser stated at the briefing that organizations and the police have worked together for years to maintain security and safety. This is a developing story and will be updated.
Source: https://time.com/7287740/washington-dc-shooting-israel-embassy-jewish-museum-suspects-victims-investigation/
