Particle.news
Download on the App Store
15 ARTICLES
·
6d ago

13-Count Indictment Adds Terrorism Charges in D.C. Jewish Museum Killings

Prosecutors say Elias Rodriguez acted with premeditation to advance a political message.

U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Ferris Pirro gestures as she speaks about Elias Rodriguez, suspected of fatally shooting two Israeli embassy staff members outside the Capital Jewish Museum, at the Justice Department in Washington, D.C., U.S., August 7, 2025. REUTERS/Kent Nishimura
Image
Image

Overview

  • The superseding filing brings the case to 13 counts, including four D.C. acts of terrorism while armed and a federal aggravating factor alleging substantial planning and premeditation.
  • Prosecutors say the local terrorism counts require a mandatory life sentence if convicted, and several federal charges carry potential life or death penalties, with no death‑penalty notice filed to date.
  • Charging documents allege Rodriguez fired about 20 rounds outside the Capital Jewish Museum, shouted “Free Palestine,” then entered the building saying he acted for Gaza.
  • Investigators say he wrote and published a manifesto intended to justify the killings and inspire others to commit political violence.
  • The victims, Israeli Embassy staffers Yaron Lischinsky, 30, and Sarah Milgrim, 26, were leaving an American Jewish Committee reception; Rodriguez previously pleaded not guilty, remains in custody, and no new plea was recorded when the indictment was unsealed.