A 21 year-old Congressional intern was shot and killed in a crossfire this week.
The victim of the shooting was identified as Eric Tarpinian-Jachym. A native of Granby, Massachusetts, Tarpinian-Jachym was a rising senior at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst and an intern in the Capitol office of Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kan.).
Metro Police said that the shooting was between two groups, and Tarpinian-Jachym was not the intended target. Multiple suspects got out of a vehicle at the corner of 7th and M Streets and began firing at another group. NBC 4 Washington showed footage of shattered glass and bullet holes in the bus shelter at the Mount Vernon Square metro bus stop where the shooting took place. It also showed surveillance video of the woman who had been shot running to a nearby store crying for help.
The vehicle involved in the shooting has been recovered but police are still searching for the suspects. They are offering a reward of up to $25,000 for any information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.
“I will remember his kind heart and how he always greeted anyone who entered our office with a cheerful smile,” said Estes. “We are grateful to Eric for his service to Kansas’ 4th District and the country. Please join Susan and me in praying for his family and respecting their privacy during this heartbreaking time.”
Rep. Richard Neal (D-Mass.)—who represents Tarpinian-Jachym's hometown of Granby—and Rep. Jim McGovern (D-Mass.)—who represents Amherst—also expressed their condolences in statements.
"Any parent will tell you there is no greater pain than the pain of losing as a child. As a father, my thoughts and prayers are with Eric’s family and loved ones during this difficult time."