Eric Rodriguez, the father of Elias Rodriguez—the man charged in the deadly shooting of two Israeli Embassy staff members in Washington, D.C.—was present at President Donald Trump’s joint address to Congress earlier this year.
Rodriguez, an Iraq War veteran known for his work supporting veterans’ rights, was invited as a guest by a Democratic congressman. According to the lawmaker, the invitation was extended in recognition of Rodriguez’s service and advocacy work, with no knowledge at the time of his son’s alleged involvement in the future incident.
Elias Rodriguez, the 31-year-old suspect, is facing serious charges, including first-degree murder and the murder of foreign officials. Authorities allege he ambushed the victims near a museum and continued to fire after they had fallen. He remains in custody and could face the death penalty if convicted.
The connection between the father’s public appearance and the son’s criminal charges has stirred public discussion. The congressman who invited Eric Rodriguez has publicly condemned the attack and reiterated his opposition to any form of antisemitic violence.