Washington D.C. – A tragic terrorist attack in the U.S. capital has taken the lives of two Israeli embassy staff members who were planning a future together. One of the victims, Yaron Lischinsky, had purchased an engagement ring and was preparing to propose to his girlfriend, Sarah Milgrim, next week in Jerusalem, according to Israeli officials.
The couple was shot and killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum on Wednesday night, in an attack that authorities have confirmed as terror-related and anti-Semitic in nature.
What Happened?
The shooting occurred around 9 p.m. after the pair attended a private event at the museum. Police say the suspect, Elias Rodriguez, 30, from Chicago, had been pacing outside the museum before approaching a group of four people that included Lischinsky and Milgrim.
Without warning, he pulled out a firearm and opened fire, fatally striking both Lischinsky and Milgrim. After the shooting, Rodriguez entered the museum and was detained by security personnel.
Motive and Investigation
Police said Rodriguez confessed to the shooting, showed officers where he had discarded the weapon, and chanted “Free, Free Palestine” during the arrest.
Officials are treating the incident as a terror attack motivated by anti-Semitism. The FBI and local law enforcement are continuing their investigation.
Public and Political Response
Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser condemned the attack, stating:
“We will not tolerate this violence or hate in our city. We will not tolerate anti-Semitism.”
Yechiel Leiter, Israeli Ambassador to the U.S., revealed that Lischinsky had been planning to propose to Milgrim in Jerusalem next week, and expressed deep sorrow and resolve:
“Together, we won’t be afraid. We’re going to overcome the moral depravity of people who believe they can achieve political gains through murder.”
He added that he had spoken directly with President Donald Trump, who reportedly pledged that his administration would take further action to combat anti-Semitism and push back against the demonization and delegitimization of Israel.
Remembering the Victims
Lischinsky and Milgrim were both valued members of the Israeli embassy staff in Washington D.C. According to their colleagues, they were highly respected, and their loss has left a deep void in the diplomatic community.
The couple was remembered for their devotion to their work, and their love for each other, which made the tragedy even more painful for those who knew them.