A man accused of killing two employees of the Israeli Embassy outside a Jewish museum in Washington, D.C., could face the death penalty if convicted, federal prosecutors confirmed this week.

Elias Rodriguez, 31, of Chicago, appeared in federal court following the fatal shooting Wednesday night near the Capital Jewish Museum. During a press briefing, Interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro announced that Rodriguez has been charged with multiple serious offenses, including two counts of first-degree murder, firearms-related crimes, and the federal capital offense of murdering foreign officials.

Pirro said that the charges make the case eligible for the death penalty, though no final determination has been made at this stage. Under District of Columbia law, a first-degree murder conviction carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years in prison, with the possibility of life imprisonment. Federal charges related to the killing of foreign officials can also carry the death penalty.

“This is a death-penalty-eligible case,” Pirro said, emphasizing that the decision on whether to seek that punishment will be made later in the legal process. She added that both the president and the attorney general have stated that capital punishment will be pursued in cases where it is deemed appropriate.

Rodriguez waived his right to a detention hearing and will remain in custody without bond as the case moves forward. A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for June 18.

The shooting occurred during an evening event organized by the American Jewish Committee, which brought together Jewish professionals and members of the diplomatic community. Authorities said the attack took place as attendees were leaving the area near the museum.

According to court documents, one of the victims was Yaron Lischinsky, a 31-year-old Israeli citizen who had been granted official guest status by the U.S. State Department. The second victim was Sarah Milgrim, a 26-year-old employee of the Israeli Embassy. Officials said the two were a couple and had been planning to become engaged.

Investigators allege that Rodriguez approached the victims from behind as they were preparing to cross the street. Surveillance footage reportedly shows a man matching Rodriguez’s description wearing casual clothing and carrying a backpack. Prosecutors say he used a 9mm handgun in the attack.

Authorities stated that the suspect fired multiple shots before fleeing toward the museum entrance. Evidence recovered at the scene included spent shell casings and firearm-related items. Milgrim was transported by District of Columbia Fire and Emergency Medical Services to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, where she was pronounced dead later that evening.

Rodriguez was taken into custody without resistance shortly after the incident. According to police, he approached officers and stated that he was unarmed. Witnesses and law enforcement officials reported that Rodriguez made political statements at the time of his arrest, including expressing support for the Palestinian cause.

Federal investigators said Rodriguez legally transported the firearm used in the shooting as checked luggage on a flight from Chicago to Washington, D.C., the day before the attack. Records indicate that the weapon was purchased legally in Illinois in 2020.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including Rodriguez’s movements prior to the event and whether he had any accomplices or affiliations. Law enforcement officials have not announced any evidence suggesting a broader threat but said security has been heightened around Jewish and diplomatic institutions in the area.

During the press conference, Pirro expressed condolences to the victims’ families, calling the case a devastating loss of life. “Two families are now left to grieve futures that will never be realized,” she said.

The case has drawn national attention due to the nature of the charges and the potential implications for federal prosecution of crimes involving foreign officials. Legal experts note that while the death penalty is rarely sought, its availability underscores the seriousness of the allegations.

As the judicial process unfolds, Rodriguez remains presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court. Prosecutors said more details will be released as evidence is presented and the case proceeds through the federal system.

The investigation remains active.