Authorities have boosted security at schools and religious institutions across Washington, D.C., following a deadly shooting outside the Capital Jewish Museum that left two Israeli Embassy staffers dead.
The victims, Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky, were killed Thursday by Elias Rodriguez, 31, who allegedly told police he wanted to “free Palestine.” Rodriguez now faces federal charges including two counts of murder and felony firearms offenses.
“This is the kind of case that picks at old sores and old scars,” said Interim U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, noting the attack is being investigated as both a hate crime and an act of terrorism.
D.C. Police Chief Pamela A. Smith said, “You will see an increased presence around our schools and places like the DC Jewish Community Center.”
Mayor Muriel Bowser added, “We stand shoulder to shoulder as one community united in love but also committed to justice for this young couple.”