Double Homicide Outside D.C. Museum: Hate Crime Investigation Underway

On Wednesday night, May 21, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., leaving two Israeli Embassy employees dead. Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, a couple, were shot and killed by 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez from Chicago. According to the Israeli ambassador to the U.S., Mr. Lischinsky was planning to propose to Ms. Milgrim during a trip to Jerusalem next week. Museum security detained Rodriguez, who was heard shouting "Free Palestine." A law enforcement source confirmed the shooting is being investigated as a hate crime. The suspect was not previously known to law enforcement agencies. The police and FBI are examining Rodriguez's electronic devices and social media accounts. Rodriguez is expected in court on Thursday for his initial appearance. This senseless act of violence has shocked the community and underscores the importance of combating hate crimes. The couple's planned engagement adds a poignant layer of tragedy to this developing story.