Suspect in Washington shooting of 'Israeli' embassy workers may face death penalty

Federal prosecutors say the man accused of fatally shooting two 'Israeli' embassy staff members in Washington, D.C. could face the death penalty if convicted.

Elias Rodriguez, 31, of Chicago, is facing multiple felony charges, including two counts of first-degree murder and hate crimes, in connection with the May 21 shooting outside the Capital Jewish Museum. The victims, Yaron Lischinsky, 30, and his 26-year-old fiancée Sarah Milgrim, were both employed by the 'Israeli' embassy.

According to federal prosecutor Jeanine Pirro, the final decision on whether to pursue capital punishment will be made by US Attorney General Pam Bondi.

Authorities say Rodriguez opened fire near the museum and was quickly apprehended at the scene. Witnesses reportedly heard him shout “Free Palestine” as he was taken into custody. He later told investigators, “I did it for Palestine, I did it for Gaza,” according to law enforcement sources.

FBI Special Agent Reid Davis stated that Rodriguez acted alone, driven by political motives. “Based on his writings and communications, we believe he was a lone wolf actor motivated by anti-Zionist and pro-Palestinian ideology with the goal of conducting a mass shooting to call attention to his political agenda,” Davis said.