D.C. Intern Shooting Sparks Debate on Crime, Safety, and Politics

A horrifying act of violence has claimed the life of a young Congressional intern in Washington D.C., raising serious questions about safety in the Democrat-run capital. The shooting highlights ongoing concerns about rising crime rates in major liberal cities across America.

At a glance:

• Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, a 21-year-old intern for MAGA-supporting Rep. Ron Estes, was killed in a drive-by shooting in Washington D.C.

• The shooting occurred near the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, with two others injured including a 16-year-old boy.

• Multiple assailants exited a vehicle and opened fire into a crowd on July 3, 2025.

• The Metropolitan Police Department is offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to arrests.

• President Trump has already signed an Executive Order to increase federal law enforcement presence in D.C. amid rising crime rates.

Tragic Death in Democrat-Run Capital

Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, a 21-year-old intern working for Republican Representative Ron Estes, was killed when multiple gunmen opened fire into a crowd near Washington D.C.’s convention center. The senior from UMass Amherst, who was majoring in finance with a minor in political science, had only joined the congressman’s office in June.

NEW @thenatpulse: MAGA Congressman’s Intern Shot Dead in Dem-Run D.C.

PULSE POINTS
WHAT HAPPENED: Eric Tar……

READ ON:https://t.co/xUlCekqnQg

— Raheem J. Kassam (@RaheemKassam) July 3, 2025

The deadly incident unfolded when several individuals exited a car at Seventh and M streets NW and began firing indiscriminately into a group of people. Two other victims, including a woman and a 16-year-old boy, sustained non-life-threatening injuries in the attack.

Rising Crime in Nation’s Capital

The area where the shooting took place has been plagued by violence, including a previous incident involving the murder of two Israeli Embassy staffers. Washington D.C., under Democratic leadership, has experienced an alarming rise in violent crime that has prompted federal intervention.

Metropolitan Police are offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the shooters, who remain unidentified and at large. The shooting marks another tragic example of innocent lives being lost in a city struggling to maintain public safety.

“I will remember his kind heart and how he always greeted anyone who entered our office with a cheerful smile,” Rep. Ron Estes said about Tarpinian-Jachym. The congressman’s office has been devastated by the loss of their young team member.

“A college student from Massachusetts working as an intern on Capitol Hill was fatally shot Monday night near the Walter E. Washington Convention Center downtown, and D.C. police said he was apparently an innocent bystander caught in a spray of bullets intended for someone else.” pic.twitter.com/Rwz8K8C2GP

— Anthony LaMesa (@ajlamesa) July 3, 2025

Federal Response to Urban Violence

President Trump has taken decisive action by signing an Executive Order to increase federal authority and law enforcement presence in D.C. The order comes as part of a broader effort to address the deteriorating safety conditions in major Democrat-run cities across the nation.

Police reports indicate that Tarpinian-Jachym was an unintended victim, struck by a stray bullet in what appears to be another senseless act of violence. WRC’s Jackie Bensen reported that the Congressional intern was “one of three victims caught in the crossfire when gunfire erupted on a crowded street.”

The shooting occurred just ahead of Independence Day celebrations, casting a shadow over the holiday in the nation’s capital. UMass Amherst officials expressed their condolences and support for the student’s family during this difficult time.