Two Israeli embassy staff members were fatally shot near the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday night, prompting an intense investigation by local and federal authorities.
The incident occurred in the area of 3rd and F streets in Northwest D.C., close to several significant landmarks including the museum, an FBI field office, and the U.S. Attorney’s office. The Metropolitan Police Department reported that a man and a woman were killed in the shooting.
Police Chief Pamela A. Smith stated that a suspect was apprehended by security personnel at the scene. “We have a person of interest in custody and are working diligently to determine the motive behind this tragic event,” Smith said during a press briefing.
The suspect, whose identity has not been released, was reportedly seen pacing outside the museum before the incident. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the shooting was a targeted attack or related to antisemitic motives.
Israeli Ambassador to the United States Michael Herzog expressed deep sorrow over the loss. “Our hearts are broken at the loss of two of our embassy staff members. We are in close contact with U.S. authorities to fully investigate this heinous act,” Herzog said in a statement.
U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas conveyed his condolences and vowed support for the investigation. “We stand with our Israeli allies in the wake of this tragedy and are committed to bringing those responsible to justice,” Mayorkas stated.
FBI Director Christopher Wray noted that the Bureau is collaborating with local law enforcement. “We are treating this incident with the utmost seriousness and will exhaust all efforts to uncover the facts,” Wray said.
Attorney General Merrick Garland and U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Matthew M. Graves visited the scene to receive updates from investigators.
The names of the victims have not been released pending notification of their families. The embassy is providing support to the victims’ relatives and staff members affected by the tragedy.
The Capital Jewish Museum issued a brief statement expressing shock and sadness over the incident and confirmed that none of its staff or visitors were harmed.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward as the investigation continues.
