Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, a 21-year-old congressional intern, was tragically shot and killed on Tuesday, July 1, near the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington D.C. The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and congressional officials have confirmed Tarpinian-Jachym’s identity as the victim of the shooting.
Background on Eric Tarpinian-Jachym
Tarpinian-Jachym was a senior at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, majoring in finance and minoring in political science. Originally from Granby, Massachusetts, he had interned for U.S. Rep. Ron Estes of Kansas, serving Kansas’ 4th Congressional District. Tarpinian-Jachym was pursuing his passion for public service and was described as a promising young individual, dedicated to making a difference.
Shooting Incident
The fatal shooting occurred at approximately 10:28 p.m. on Tuesday, near the Convention Center in downtown D.C. Police reported that Tarpinian-Jachym was caught in a spray of bullets that were allegedly intended for someone else. Two other victims were struck in the shooting: an adult female and a 16-year-old male. Both of these individuals were conscious when police arrived. Unfortunately, Tarpinian-Jachym was found unconscious and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Tributes from Officials
Rep. Ron Estes of Kansas, for whom Tarpinian-Jachym was interning, expressed his sorrow in a statement, remembering the young intern for his kind heart and cheerful demeanor. Estes said, “I will remember his kind heart and how he always greeted anyone who entered our office with a cheerful smile. We are grateful to Eric for his service to Kansas’ 4th District and the country.”
Rep. Richard Neal of Massachusetts, who knew Tarpinian-Jachym from his time at UMass Amherst, also honored him. Neal shared, “Eric embodied what it means to be part of a community committed to learning, growth, and civic engagement. Any parent will tell you there is no greater pain than the pain of losing a child.”
Investigation and Reward
The MPD is actively investigating the shooting and is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible. Anyone with information is urged to contact the MPD at (202) 727-9099 or text tips to 50411.
This tragic incident has left the family, friends, and colleagues of Eric Tarpinian-Jachym heartbroken, and the community continues to mourn the loss of a young individual who was just beginning to make his mark in public service.
