Washington, D.C. — May 23, 2025: A Chicago man has been formally charged with two counts of first-degree murder following the fatal shooting of two Israeli embassy employees in Washington, an attack that has prompted international condemnation and is being investigated as a potential hate crime and act of terrorism.
Elias Rodriguez, 31, was arrested at the scene Wednesday night after allegedly opening fire outside a young professionals and diplomats' event hosted by the American Jewish Committee (AJC). According to court filings, Rodriguez stated to police, “I did it for Palestine, I did it for Gaza,” and was heard chanting “Free Palestine” upon his arrest.
The victims were identified as Yaron Lischinsky, 30, and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, 26, a couple reportedly on the verge of engagement. Both were described by friends and colleagues as committed peace advocates working to build cross-cultural understanding in the Middle East.
Federal prosecutors have filed multiple charges against Rodriguez, including murder of foreign officials, causing death with a firearm, and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence. Interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro, appointed by President Donald Trump, stated during a news conference that the case qualifies for the federal death penalty.
“We are pursuing this as a hate crime and as a terror-related offense,” Pirro said. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed that preliminary investigations suggest Rodriguez acted alone.
At his initial court appearance on Thursday, Rodriguez waived his right to a detention hearing. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for June 18. According to the FBI affidavit, Rodriguez was silent during proceedings except to affirm he understood his rights.
Investigative Focus: Motive and Alleged Manifesto
Federal investigators are reviewing Rodriguez’s digital footprint and possible political affiliations. FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino confirmed that authorities are examining a document allegedly posted by Rodriguez shortly before the shooting to a now-deactivated anonymous social media account. Titled “Escalate for Gaza, Bring the War Home,” the document expressed militant opposition to Israeli military actions in Gaza and framed the attack as a form of political protest.
The content and authenticity of the manifesto remain under investigation. Meanwhile, Jewish advocacy groups have cited the incident as a stark reminder of rising antisemitism and growing polarization related to the conflict in Gaza.
Suspect’s Background and Affiliations
Rodriguez, a University of Illinois Chicago graduate with a degree in English, previously worked for a healthcare nonprofit and had stints as a content writer and oral history researcher. A former association with the Party for Socialism and Liberation (PSL) was confirmed by the group, which said Rodriguez was no longer affiliated after 2017 and condemned the violence. He was also reportedly involved with ANSWER, a group known for organizing pro-Palestinian demonstrations.
At the time of the shooting, surveillance footage showed Rodriguez pacing near the museum venue—approximately one mile from the White House—before opening fire. According to the FBI complaint, he fired multiple rounds at the victims, reloaded, and continued shooting even after one victim attempted to flee. Authorities recovered a legally purchased 9mm handgun, 21 shell casings, and a magazine at the scene.
Rodriguez was apprehended after reentering the venue, drawing attention to himself by displaying a red keffiyeh and declaring responsibility for the shooting.
Global Response
The shooting has sparked widespread condemnation. President Trump posted on Truth Social, calling the attack "obviously based on antisemitism" and demanding an end to such violence. “Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the USA,” he wrote.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed condolences and denounced the shooting as “an abhorrent antisemitic murder.” In a post on X, he stated: “We are witness to the terrible cost of antisemitism and incitement against the State of Israel—both must be fought resolutely.”
The event is likely to intensify debate in the U.S. over the Gaza conflict and deepen political divides surrounding protests, free speech, and public safety.
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