Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim die in fatal Washington, D.C. shooting

Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim die in fatal Washington, D.C. shooting

Fatal Washington, D.C. shooting death of Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim – Obituary

Two Israeli Embassy staffers, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, were fatally shot outside the Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., in what authorities have described as a targeted attack. The couple, who were reportedly planning to get engaged soon, were described by the Israeli Embassy as being “in the prime of their lives.”

The tragic shooting took place when 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez of Chicago approached a group near the museum, pulled out a firearm, and opened fire, fatally striking both Lischinsky and Milgrim. Authorities say Rodriguez then entered the museum, where he was detained by security personnel.

According to Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela A. Smith, Rodriguez was seen pacing outside the museum before the attack. Witnesses captured video of Rodriguez shouting “Free Palestine” as he was being arrested. He later led police to the discarded weapon used in the shooting.

The victims were honored by Israel’s ambassador to the U.S., Yechiel Leiter, who noted that Lischinsky had just purchased an engagement ring with plans to propose in Jerusalem the following week. Friends recalled Lischinsky as joyful and passionate about politics, and said he spoke lovingly of his family and his childhood in Bavaria, Germany. Milgrim, also remembered fondly, had dedicated herself to diplomatic service.

Rodriguez was not previously known to law enforcement databases. The FBI and Washington, D.C. police are jointly investigating the incident. A court appearance for Rodriguez could take place as early as Thursday, according to Justice Department sources.