Police: Two Israeli Embassy Staff Shot Dead in D.C. Attack

• May 22, 2025

Two Israeli Embassy employees were shot and killed on Wednesday night near the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., just steps away from an FBI office. Authorities have now released key details about the incident and the suspect involved.

According to the police, the shooting occurred outside the museum and was quickly responded to by security personnel on site. The suspect, identified as Elias Rodriguez from Chicago, was arrested at the scene. Witnesses reported that Rodriguez shouted “Free, free Palestine” while in custody, indicating a possible political motive.

Both victims were confirmed to be employees of the Israeli Embassy. Their identities have not yet been made public as authorities work to notify their families and continue the investigation. Officials are treating the case with urgency given the location of the attack and the diplomatic ties involved.

The FBI office located near the scene was not directly targeted, and there are no indications at this time of a broader threat to the public or to other diplomatic missions in the area. However, law enforcement has increased security around the Israeli Embassy and other sensitive locations in the city as a precaution.

The Capital Jewish Museum, located near where the shooting took place, was temporarily closed to the public as the investigation continued. Security camera footage and eyewitness accounts are being reviewed to piece together the events leading up to the shooting.

Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the attack was premeditated or what specific connection, if any, the suspect had to the victims or the embassy itself. The U.S. Secret Service, which often works with foreign embassies, is assisting in the ongoing investigation.

Officials say more details will be shared as the investigation progresses. The Israeli government has been informed and is working closely with U.S. law enforcement agencies.

The shooting has raised serious concerns amid already heightened tensions over global political issues involving the Middle East. Investigators are now working to determine whether this was an isolated act or part of a broader pattern that requires greater diplomatic and security attention.