Federal authorities have charged Elias Rodriguez, 31, of Chicago, with first-degree murder and multiple felony firearm counts in the execution-style shooting of Sarah Milgrim, 26, and Yaron Lischinsky, 30, on May 22, 2025, outside the Capital Jewish Museum. Both victims were affiliated with diplomatic missions and had just left an event hosted by the American Jewish Committee.
Rodriguez, arrested at the scene, allegedly shouted “Free, free Palestine” and told investigators: “I did it for Palestine, I did it for Gaza.”
Victims: Two Lives Taken in Targeted Shooting
- Sarah Milgrim: A U.S. national and staffer with the Department of State.
- Yaron Lischinsky: An Israeli diplomat stationed in D.C.
Surveillance footage shows Rodriguez firing 21 rounds, reloading, and continuing to shoot Milgrim as she attempted to crawl to safety.
Suspect Profile: Elias Rodriguez
Rodriguez, an English literature graduate from the University of Illinois, worked as a freelance content writer. Investigators discovered ties to the Party for Socialism and Liberation, a group supporting Palestinian liberation. A sign referencing Wadea Alfayoumi, a Palestinian-American child murdered in 2023, was found in his apartment, suggesting ideological motivations.
Context: Rising Antisemitism and Online Radicalisation
This act occurs amid a surge in antisemitic violence, with the Anti-Defamation League noting a 140% increase in reported incidents since 2020. Advocacy groups like the Southern Poverty Law Center warn of ideological radicalization fueled by online hate speech and extremism.
The Capital Jewish Museum, known for hosting interfaith and cultural dialogues, was hosting a private event when the attack occurred.
Legal Fallout and Federal Response
Rodriguez has been charged with:
- Two counts of first-degree murder
- Murder of foreign officials
- Federal firearm violations
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and FBI are investigating this as a potential terrorist act and hate crime. If convicted, Rodriguez could face the death penalty.
Community and National Reactions
- Jewish Federation of North America: Called for increased federal protection at Jewish institutions.
- FBI & DHS: Increased security at synagogues and cultural centers in Florida, Atlanta, and New York.
Social media response has been divided. One post on X stated: “Rodriguez is a terrorist, not a freedom fighter.” Others pointed to online radicalisation and fringe group rhetoric as contributing factors.
Next Steps in the Case
- Next Court Appearance: June 18, 2025
- Memorial Service: Scheduled by Capital Jewish Museum
- Public Tip Line: FBI requests witnesses contact 1-800-CALL-FBI
Why It Matters
This case raises urgent questions about:
- The intersection of political extremism and hate crimes
- How online spaces amplify radical ideologies
- The safety of Jewish and diplomatic communities in the U.S.
Experts at the Center for Strategic and International Studies urge lawmakers to examine the broader national security implications of politically charged domestic terrorism.
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