Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, a University of Massachusetts Amherst rising senior and intern for Rep. Ron Estes, has become the focus of a tragic security probe in the nation’s capital. His untimely death has sent shockwaves through Capitol Hill and his university community.
According to Fox News, the 21-year-old intern was shot around 10:28 p.m. Monday on the 1200 block of 7th Street NW and died the following day. An adult woman and a 16-year-old boy were also struck and taken to local hospitals with nonfatal injuries.
Multiple sources confirm that several individuals exited a car and opened fire on a small group gathered on the sidewalk. Police say Tarpinian-Jachym was not believed to be the intended target, suggesting a random act of violence. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage and witness statements to piece together the events.
Authorities report that at least three suspects, described only as young males, fired numerous rounds into the crowd from close range. The suspects fled in a dark-colored sedan before officers arrived on the scene. Shell casings and bullet fragments were collected by Crime Scene Investigators.
Responding officers rendered first aid to the injured and secured the area for detectives. The Metropolitan Police Department’s Homicide Branch has taken the lead, with uniformed patrols increasing in nearby neighborhoods. Residents described hearing rapid gunfire and seeing panicked pedestrians scatter.
Investigators believe the shooting stemmed from an altercation earlier in the evening but have not confirmed a specific motive. No arrests have been made, and police stress there is no ongoing threat to the public. The case remains open as detectives follow up on multiple leads.
Tarpinian-Jachym was serving as a legislative intern for Rep. Ron Estes, R-Kan., while completing his finance major and political science minor. He had participated in a spring fellowship with The Fund for American Studies, which lists his hometown as Aberdeen, Mississippi. His academic and professional trajectory marked him as a promising young policy aide.
“I will remember his kind heart and how he always greeted anyone who entered our office with a cheerful smile,” Estes said in a statement. “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.”
Phillip Peterson, a friend who met Tarpinian-Jachym in January, described him as “a very easy-going person to be around.” Peterson said they had discussed becoming roommates, but logistical hurdles prevented it. “I legitimately do regret now not going back to D.C. just so I could have spent more time with my friend,” he added.
The Metropolitan Police Department has announced a $25,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction in the case. Authorities urge anyone with knowledge of the shooting or the suspects to come forward. Tipsters can remain anonymous and may contact the department’s homicide tip line.
Witnesses are encouraged to call (202) 727-9099 or submit information online via the MPD website. Police have also established a temporary command post near the crime scene to facilitate community engagement. Investigators are reviewing digital evidence, including cell phone videos and social media posts.
This shooting adds to a troubling trend of late-night violence in the district, where gunfire incidents have risen by nearly 10 percent compared to last year. Community leaders have called for enhanced street lighting and more patrol officers. Local advocacy groups plan to hold a vigil later this week to honor the victims.
Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, along with an adult female and a 16-year-old boy, was struck by gunfire on the 1200 block of 7th Street NW in Washington, D.C. The apparent random attack left Tarpinian-Jachym dead and other victims injured.
The MPD’s Homicide Branch is coordinating with federal prosecutors to review evidence and determine charges once suspects are identified. Officers continue canvassing the neighborhood and analyzing surveillance footage for leads.
Next, police will present their findings to the U.S. Attorney’s Office in hopes of securing arrest warrants. Community meetings scheduled this week aim to address safety concerns and provide support to those affected by the shooting.
