Double Murder Outside D.C. Museum: Eyewitness Recounts Suspect's Confession

On May 22, 2025, two Israeli embassy staff members were fatally shot outside the Capitol Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. Eyewitness Katie Kalisher recounted a harrowing encounter with the suspect, Elias Rodriguez, stating, "He comes in, he looks really distressed...he reaches into his bag and pulls out a keffiyeh and says, 'I did it. I did this for Gaza.'" Rodriguez, 30, from Chicago, is in custody. Police Chief Pamela Smith confirmed the suspect's confession and the recovery of the weapon. The Israeli ambassador to the United States expressed his condolences, calling the couple "beautiful." The motive remains unclear, but authorities are investigating potential links to terrorism and hate crimes. This tragedy underscores the ongoing tensions and violence in the region and serves as a stark reminder of the need for peace and understanding.