Mother of Slain Congressional Intern Pleads for Justice
The mother of a Congressional intern killed in Washington, D.C., has made a heartfelt plea for police to track down those responsible for her son’s death, urging that this tragedy could happen to other families as well.
Eric Tarpinian Yachim, a 21-year-old student from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, was captured on video on the evening of June 30 and was pronounced dead on July 1. According to the Metropolitan Police Department, the shooting occurred around 10:28 PM in the 1200 block of 7th Avenue in northwest D.C.
While both a 16-year-old male and an adult woman were shot, they survived. As of Tuesday, the suspect remains at large, a spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police told Fox News Digital.
Investigators revealed that several individuals exited a vehicle and opened fire into a crowd, including Yachim, who was not the intended target.
FBI Joins Manhunt Following Intern’s Fatal Shooting
In an interview, Eric’s mother, Tamara Jachym, expressed her anguish, insisting that authorities need to apprehend the perpetrator, as they could strike again. “This is serious. It’s frightening. A mile from the White House. When something like this occurs again, we need to take it seriously,” she remarked, referencing another shooting that killed a child the previous weekend. “I mean, the mayor must take this seriously.”
“Eric felt secure that night. It was still early, and he was in what seemed like a decent neighborhood. It’s just tragic. He was the 85th victim, and now he’s part of a growing number,” she added, noting that 91 people have died in Washington, D.C., this year alone.
Details Surrounding the Incident
Jachym described her son as “a very kind, sweet and caring young man,” who had an affection for animals and enjoyed fishing. “He was special. He loved walking around D.C., dining out, and connecting with people.” A student at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, he was set to return for his junior year.
Another student from the university expressed sorrow over Yachim’s passing, recalling how he always greeted visitors with a warm smile. “I’m grateful for Eric’s service to Kansas’ fourth district and to our country,” they shared in a statement, asking for respect for the family’s privacy during this difficult time.
The FBI has stated they are supporting local law enforcement in this investigation.
The Metropolitan Police Department, in collaboration with the FBI, is offering a reward of $40,000 for information leading to arrests and convictions related to this case. Anyone with details is urged to contact (202) 727-9099.
