The young woman killed along with her soon-to-be fiance in an antisemitic attack outside a Jewish museum in Washington, D.C., Wednesday night was from Overland Park, Kansas.
Sarah Milgrim, 26, and Yaron Lischinsky, a couple who reports indicate were about to become engaged, were on the staff at the Israeli Embassy. They were shot “at close range” and killed in a targeted attack outside an event at the Capital Jewish Museum.
The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez of Chicago, reportedly entered the facility afterward, shouting ““Free, free Palestine” as he was taken into custody.
“Lischinsky had just purchased a ring and planned to propose to Milgrim in Jerusalem next week,” The Daily Signal reports.
“They were a beautiful couple,” said Israeli ambassador to the U.S. Yechiel Leiter.
They were at the museum for the American Jewish Committee’s reception for young diplomats.
Milgrim is a 2017 graduate of Shawnee Mission East in Prairie Village, according to KMBC-TV.
“She then attended the University of Kansas, where she was an active member of KU’s Hillel, a center for Jewish life on campus,” the station reports.
Milgrim reportedly had a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies from KU.
The American Jewish Committee described Sarah as “warm and compassionate, committed to peacebuilding and passionate about sustainability and people-to-people relations.”
“U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi reportedly told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that President Trump is ‘personally involved in managing the response to the attack and that the United States will ensure the murderer is brought to justice,’” KMBC writes.
“These horrible D.C. killings, based obviously on antisemitism, must end, NOW!” the president wrote on his Truth Social platform. “Hatred and Radicalism have no place in the USA. Condolences to the families of the victims. So sad that such things as this can happen! God Bless You ALL!”
“This is the direct result of toxic anti-Semitic incitement against Israel and Jews around the world that has been going on since the October 7th massacre,” Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said.
“I have been worried for the past few months that something like this would happen. And it did.”
Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly entered the procession of mourners, writing:
“I join in mourning the loss of Kansan Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky, two Israeli Embassy staffers who were killed last night outside of the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C..
“As I have said before, antisemitic violence is not theoretical, and it is happening now. Those responsible for this vicious crime must be brought to justice. In my role as Governor, I will continue to call out antisemitism and be active in pushing back against it. As Kansans, we value peace over violence, dialogue over destruction, and dignity for all people, regardless of faith or background.”
Writes KU Hillel:
“With profound sadness, KU Hillel mourns the loss of our beloved alum Sarah Milgrim (Class of 21), who was tragically killed with her boyfriend, Yaron Lischinsky, in the attack last night at the Capital Jewish Museum.
“Sarah’s bright spirit and passion for the Jewish community touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. Those closest to her describe as the definition of the best person. During her time at KU Millel, she exemplified the values we hold dear. She worked as an intern, travelled to Israel on Birthright, and served as a member of KU Hillel’s Board of Directors, making meaningful contributions that continue to resonate today.
“In the face of such hateful violence, we come together as a community to support one another and to honor Sarah’s memory. In this difficult time, if you are seeking mental health and wellness support, please reach out to us for a full list of available resources and benefits.
“We are here for you, always. May Sarah and Yaron’s memories always be a blessing. Baruch Dayan Ha’Emet”
