On the evening of Wednesday, May 21, 2025, a tragic shooting occurred outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., resulting in the deaths of two individuals and injuries to a third. The victims were attending an event hosted by the American Jewish Committee (AJC) when the incident took place near 575 3rd Street NW, an area close to prominent federal buildings, including the FBI field office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Victims and Investigation
Law enforcement sources have confirmed that at least two of the victims had ties to the Israeli Embassy. Israeli UN Ambassador Danny Danon condemned the attack, stating, “Harming diplomats and the Jewish community is crossing a red line,” and expressed confidence in U.S. authorities to take strong action against those responsible.
The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is leading the investigation, and authorities are actively searching for a male suspect described as having a goatee and last seen wearing a blue jacket and jeans near F Street NW.
Community Response
Ted Deutch, CEO of the American Jewish Committee, expressed devastation over the violence, emphasizing support for the victims and their families. He stated, “At this moment, as we await more information from the police about exactly what transpired, our attention and our hearts are solely with those who were harmed and their families.”
Broader Context
This incident adds to a series of attacks targeting Jewish institutions in the United States. Notably, in 2009, a white supremacist opened fire at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C., killing security guard Stephen Tyrone Johns. The assailant, James W. von Brunn, was an 88-year-old with a history of anti-Semitic beliefs.
The recent shooting underscores the persistent threat of violence against Jewish communities and institutions. It highlights the need for continued vigilance and enhanced security measures to protect these spaces and the individuals who frequent them.
As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone with information to come forward to assist in bringing the perpetrator to justice.