Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim Fatally Shot Outside Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C.; Attack Investigated as Antisemitic Hate Crime

On the evening of May 21, 2025, a tragic shooting occurred outside the Lillian & Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., resulting in the deaths of two Israeli Embassy staff members, Yaron Lischinsky, 28, and Sarah Lynn Milgrim. The couple, both deeply committed to diplomacy and peacebuilding, were leaving the “Young Diplomats Reception” hosted by the American Jewish Committee when they were attacked.

The assailant, identified as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez from Chicago, allegedly opened fire on the couple, striking them at close range. Witnesses reported that Rodriguez shouted “Free, Free Palestine” during his arrest, and authorities believe the act was motivated by antisemitic ideology. The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is leading the investigation, treating the incident as a targeted hate crime.

Yaron Lischinsky served as a research assistant in the embassy’s Political Department since September 2022 and had previously served in the Israel Defense Forces. Sarah Milgrim worked in the Department of Public Diplomacy since November 2023 and held degrees from the University of Kansas and American University. The couple was reportedly planning to become engaged during an upcoming trip to Jerusalem.

The attack has drawn condemnation from Israeli and U.S. officials, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former President Donald Trump, highlighting concerns over rising antisemitic incidents. In response, security measures at Israeli missions worldwide have been heightened.

The Washington, D.C. community and international observers mourn the loss of Lischinsky and Milgrim, remembering them for their dedication to diplomacy and their vibrant contributions to fostering peace and understanding.