Israeli Embassy Staffers Killed in DC: Suspect Charged with First-Degree Murder

A 30-year-old man accused of killing two Israeli Embassy staffers in Washington, D.C., has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder. Elias Rodriguez was arrested after allegedly confessing to the fatal shooting of Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim, who were planning to get engaged. Lischinsky, an evangelical Christian Zionist, worked as a researcher at the embassy, while Milgrim organized U.S. missions to Israel.
Security footage showed Rodriguez approaching the couple outside a museum, pulling a firearm, and firing multiple times. Milgrim attempted to crawl away but was followed and shot again. Authorities recovered 21 fired bullets and a 9mm handgun traced to Rodriguez, who purchased it in Illinois in 2020. He reportedly flew from Chicago to Washington, D.C., and declared the handgun in his checked baggage.
The Justice Department labeled the attack both a terrorist act and a hate crime. Interim U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro stated the charges are initial and more may be added. President Trump condemned the attack, calling it driven by antisemitism and extremism.
Rodriguez, who did not enter a plea, remains in custody. His next court hearing is scheduled for June 18.

Published: 5/23/2025