Two minors apprehended for the deadly shooting of a congressional intern
In the heart of Washington, D.C., a tragic incident unfolded on the night of June 30, claiming the life of Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, an innocent bystander. Tarpinian-Jachym, a rising senior at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, was working as a summer intern in the office of Rep. Ron Estes, R-Kansas.
As reported by Associated Press writer Alanna Durkin Richer, two teenagers, Kelvin Thomas Jr. and Jailen Lucas, have been arrested on murder charges for the shooting death of Tarpinian-Jachym. The suspects, residents of the district, exited a vehicle at an intersection and shot at two people riding bikes, including a 16-year-old male who was wounded.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro charged the suspects with first-degree murder while armed. However, the identity of the third suspect still at large remains unknown. According to reports, the individual goes by the name of Michael Green and is described as armed and considered dangerous.
The arrests have garnered attention from high-ranking officials. Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that the arrests are a testament to President Trump's efforts to make Washington, D.C., safe again. Rep. Ron Estes paid tribute to Tarpinian-Jachym in the House, calling him a dedicated, thoughtful, and kind person.
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser expressed her condolences and stated that any level of gun violence in the city is unacceptable. MPD Chief Pamela Smith spoke to Tarpinian-Jachym's mother on Friday, offering her condolences and assuring her that the investigation is ongoing.
Surveillance video helped investigators identify the three suspects, according to Metropolitan Police Department Commander Kevin Kentish. Online court records did not immediately identify attorneys for the suspects. The Department of Justice, under Bondi, will continue its work to prevent further tragedies like Eric Tarpinian-Jachym's.
In a show of solidarity, the House observed a moment of silence for Tarpinian-Jachym. President Donald Trump also mentioned Tarpinian-Jachym's death during an Aug. 11 news conference.
Our thoughts remain with Tarpinian-Jachym's family and friends during this difficult time. The search continues for the third suspect, and we hope for justice to be served in this heartbreaking case.
