Washington, D.C. – The two victims fatally shot outside the Capital Jewish Museum on Wednesday night have been identified as Yaron Lischinsky, 28, and his partner Sarah Milgrim, both employees of the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C.

The couple, described as deeply committed to diplomacy and peacebuilding, were reportedly soon to be engaged.

The incident occurred during a diplomatic networking event — the “Young Diplomats Reception” — hosted by the American Jewish Committee.

According to authorities, the shooting is being investigated as a targeted act of antisemitic violence.

Yaron Lischinsky, who served in the political department of the Israeli Embassy, held a master’s degree in Government, Diplomacy & Strategy from Reichman University and a bachelor’s degree in International Relations from Hebrew University. Known for his passion for interfaith dialogue and regional cooperation, Lischinsky had written on his LinkedIn profile:

“I’m an ardent believer in the vision that was outlined in the Abraham Accords and believe that expanding the circle of peace with our Arab neighbors and pursuing regional cooperation is in the best interest of the State of Israel and the Middle East as a whole.”

Lischinsky was also well known in Israel’s Messianic Jewish community. His father is a member of a Messianic congregation in Jerusalem.

His partner, Sarah Milgrim, also served at the embassy within the Department of Public Diplomacy. She held a Master’s in International Affairs from American University and a Master’s in Natural Resources and Sustainable Development from the University for Peace. Her background included peacebuilding research with Tech2Peace in Tel Aviv, environmental advocacy in India and Central America, and interfaith education. Sarah described herself as passionate about bridging cultural and religious divides through dialogue and sustainable development.

At approximately 8:00 p.m., 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez of Chicago allegedly opened fire on a group of individuals outside the Capital Jewish Museum. According to Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith, Rodriguez had been seen pacing outside the museum before approaching the group and firing a handgun, striking Lischinsky and Milgrim at close range.

After the shooting, Rodriguez entered the museum where he was quickly detained by security personnel. Authorities recovered the firearm following directions from the suspect. While in custody, Rodriguez chanted “Free, Free Palestine,” and authorities believe he may have been motivated by antisemitic ideology.

Video footage also captured Rodriguez wearing a red keffiyeh during the arrest. The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is now leading the investigation, with support from the Metropolitan Police Department.

Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Yechiel Leiter revealed at a news conference that Lischinsky had recently purchased an engagement ring and planned to propose to Sarah during an upcoming visit to Jerusalem.

“This was a young couple full of life and hope, dedicated to peace, who were brutally gunned down in an act of hatred,” Ambassador Leiter said.

Tal Naim Cohen, a spokesperson for the Israeli Embassy, confirmed that both victims were shot “at close range” while attending the Jewish diplomatic event.

Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem condemned the attack, stating on social media:

“Two Israeli Embassy staff were senselessly killed tonight near the Jewish Museum in Washington DC. We are actively investigating and working to get more information to share.”

Former President Donald Trump described the shooting as an “obviously antisemitic” attack, writing:

“These horrible D.C. killings, based obviously on antisemitism, must end, NOW! Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the USA. Condolences to the families of the victims.”

Israeli President Isaac Herzog also expressed his outrage:

“This is a despicable act of hatred, of antisemitism, which has claimed the lives of two young employees of the Israeli embassy. The U.S. and Israel will stand united in defense of our people and our shared values.”

Authorities continue to investigate the suspect’s background and potential connections to extremist groups.

Officials have stated the attack appears to be premeditated and ideologically motivated. No other suspects are being sought at this time.

The tragic deaths of Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim have sent shockwaves through diplomatic and Jewish communities in Washington, D.C., Israel, and beyond.

Their lives and work reflected a shared commitment to peace, diplomacy, and mutual understanding — ideals now underscored by the tragic circumstances of their deaths.