FBI Investigation into Shooting Near Washington Jewish Museum

The FBI is currently looking into a shooting incident that occurred outside the Jewish Museum in Washington, reportedly involving two Israeli embassies, as confirmed by law enforcement officials.

In a statement released Thursday morning, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino emphasized the agency’s commitment to seeking severe penalties, hinting that this might be an act of anti-Semitic violence. He expressed that the Bureau is giving the situation their full attention.

“Last night’s horrific act has drawn the FBI’s full focus,” Bongino wrote on the social media platform X.

“Those who perpetrate anti-Semitic violence are typically cowardly individuals,” he added. “As we intensify our investigation and follow new leads, the consequences will become more serious.”

The incident took place just after 9 PM when the suspect, identified as Elias Rodriguez from Chicago, left a gathering at the museum. He approached a group of four people and opened fire at close range, resulting in the deaths of two museum staff members, Yaron Lisinski and Sarah Lynn Milgrim.

The suspect later entered the museum and was subsequently arrested. After his capture, he reportedly shouted, “Free, free Palestine,” according to Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith during a press conference.

President Trump and several cabinet members have labeled the shooting as an anti-Semitic attack.

Bongino mentioned in another statement that the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) is collaborating with the Metropolitan Police Department in D.C. to carry out interviews with the suspect.

He also indicated that the FBI is working alongside a U.S. law firm to review evidence and consider potential next steps.

“Initial indications suggest this is a targeted violent act,” Bongino stated. “Our team is fully engaged, and we will provide answers promptly without jeopardizing ongoing leads.”