The parents of a Congressional intern who was killed in Washington, D.C., expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the district’s attorneys on Friday, following the Trump administration’s decision to charge two teenagers in connection with the murder.
Both suspects, unidentified 17-year-olds, have been charged as adults for the death of 21-year-old Eric Tarpinian-Yachim. During an appearance on “The Story with Martha McCallum,” his mother, Tamara, and father, Robert, were visibly emotional as they thanked all the detectives and others who worked on the case. “I have always admired you and appreciate everything you’ve done,” Tamara said through tears. Hearing the details of her son’s tragic incident during a press conference was a shock for her.
She added, “I hope we continue to find justice for all victims of such needless violence. My heart goes out to every family who has lost a child to senseless murders. Thank you once again.”
After Tamara spoke, Robert expressed his gratitude directly to Judge Pirro, saying, “When I see you, I want to give you a big hug for Eric. Thank you.”
Judge Pirro assured the parents, who were clearly grieving, that the journey for justice was ongoing. “We have prosecutions ahead, and we’re committed to finding justice for you,” she said.
Reportedly, she highlighted the suspects’ prior criminal records to emphasize her concerns about the leniency of juvenile crime laws in D.C.
Eric, a student intern from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, was shot near the Mount Vernon Square Metro station on June 30. Investigations revealed that he was not the intended target, as the incident stemmed from ongoing conflicts among neighborhood groups, according to Metropolitan Police Department Commander Kevin Kentish.
Judge Pirro mentioned, “The City Council feels that these young people must be balanced, being both held accountable and protected.”
The two suspects are facing charges of first-degree murder, and authorities are still on the lookout for a third suspect linked to the case.
