Federal authorities have charged a suspect in connection with the fatal shooting of two Israeli Embassy staff members in Washington, D.C. The suspect, identified as Elias Rodriguez, a 30-year-old Chicago resident, was arrested near the scene and faces multiple counts of murder and terrorism-related offenses.
The attack occurred outside the Capital Jewish Museum, where embassy employees had gathered for a private event. Witnesses reported seeing Rodriguez pacing near the entrance before approaching the victims and opening fire without warning. The brazenness of the attack raises serious concerns about security protocols for foreign officials stationed in the United States.
Rodriguez allegedly shouted political slogans at the time of his arrest, including statements linking his actions to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Prosecutors have indicated that this case could carry the death penalty, though they have yet to confirm whether they will pursue that sentence.
Sources:
https://www.cnn.com/2025/05/22/israeli-embassy-shooting-suspect-murder-charges/index.html