By Parrot Newspaper 
Gunman Shouts “Free Palestine,” Murders Israeli Embassy Staff
By Investigative Desk – Parrot Newspaper | May 22, 2025 | www.parrotnewspaper.com
WASHINGTON, D.C. – A diplomatic tragedy unfolded Wednesday night in the heart of the U.S. capital as two employees of the Israeli embassy—a young couple believed to be romantically involved—were shot and killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum, moments after attending a humanitarian event aimed at interfaith cooperation. The assailant, shouting pro-Palestinian slogans, is in custody as authorities investigate what many are calling a politically and religiously motivated hate crime.
The victims, both unnamed at press time, were confirmed by Israeli Ambassador Yechiel Leiter to be close aides at the embassy. The ambassador revealed that the male victim had just purchased an engagement ring and planned to propose next week in Jerusalem.
The gunman, identified by police as Elias Rodriguez, 30, from Chicago, allegedly paced outside the museum before approaching a small group leaving the event and opening fire without provocation. Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith confirmed that Rodriguez was detained shortly after the shooting by museum security. Witnesses report that he pulled out a red keffiyeh and began chanting “Free, free Palestine!” as officers arrived and handcuffed him.
“This was not a random act,” one federal law enforcement official told Parrot Newspaper. “We are looking seriously at ideological and antisemitic motivations.”
Inside the museum, chaos ensued. Witnesses Yoni Kalin and Katie Kalisher recounted how the gunman walked in looking disoriented. Attendees, unaware of the unfolding horror, offered him water, thinking he was in distress. Moments later, realization set in as police stormed in and the man began shouting political slogans.
“This was an event about peace,” Kalin told reporters. “It was about how Muslims, Jews, and Christians can collaborate to ease suffering in Gaza and Israel. And then this… he just murdered two innocent people in cold blood.”
Reaction has been swift and fierce from leaders across the globe. Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed devastation, calling the murders “a despicable act of hatred, of antisemitism,” and pledged solidarity with Jews in America and Israel alike.
President Donald Trump, taking to social media early Thursday, decried the killings as acts of hatred that “must end, NOW!” He added: “Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the USA. Condolences to the families of the victims. So sad that such things as this can happen! God Bless You ALL!”
Prominent American legal officials, including Attorney General Pam Bondi and U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, were reportedly near the scene. The Justice Department is expected to press federal charges, possibly including terrorism or hate crimes.
The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington issued a statement condemning the attack and mourning the victims. “Our hearts are with their families and loved ones, and with all who are impacted by this tragic act of antisemitic violence.”
Authorities currently maintain that there is no further threat to the public, but the event has reignited conversations around diplomatic security, rising antisemitism, and the spillover of international conflicts into American cities.
Parrot Newspaper is monitoring the investigation and will provide further updates as more information becomes available.