Washington DC increases security at faith-based institutions in wake of antisemitic shooting

Washington, D.C.'s, Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced Thursday it would increase its security detail near religious institutions and schools this weekend, after two people were killed near a Jewish museum on Wednesday. 

The two individuals have been identified as Israeli embassy staffers Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim, who were a couple that were attending an event at the Capital Jewish Museum, which was hosted by the American Jewish Committee.

Police officials have identified the suspect as 31-year-old Chicago resident Elias Rodriguez, and the shooting has been labeled an act of antisemitic terrorism. The man allegedly shouted "Free Palestine" during the shooting.

MPD Chief Pamela Smith told reporters in an update on Thursday afternoon that the increased security will take place heading into Memorial Day weekend. It is not clear when the security will go back to normal. 

“You will find us around our faith-based organizations,” Smith said. “You will see an increased presence around our schools and places like the DC Jewish Community Center. We stand shoulder to shoulder with our Jewish community.”

Other major U.S. cities are also increasing their security at religious institutions and Israeli consulates in the wake of the tragedy, including New York City, Chicago, Los Angeles and Miami.

“Due to the horrific targeted act of hate and violence in Washington, D.C., we are taking immediate steps to enhance security throughout Miami-Dade County,” the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office said in a statement Thursday.

None of the other cities have reported any connections to the D.C. shooting, but the actions are often used to discourage copycats or coordinated attacks.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.