FBI Joins Manhunt After Murder of Congressional Intern in D.C. Ambush

Washington, D.C. – July 8, 2025 — A promising congressional intern with a passion for public service was shot dead in a brutal ambush just blocks from the U.S. Capitol, prompting the FBI to join the manhunt for his killers.

Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, 21, was caught in a hail of gunfire around 10:30 p.m. on June 30 while walking along 7th Street NW in D.C.’s Shaw neighborhood. Police say multiple suspects jumped out of a vehicle and opened fire on a group of people, hitting Eric, a 16-year-old boy, and an adult woman. All were rushed to nearby hospitals, but Eric succumbed to his injuries the next day.

No arrests have been made, and police now confirm Eric was likely not the intended target. The brazen attack has left a congressional office in mourning — and now, federal authorities are involved.

Eric had been interning for Kansas Republican Rep. Ron Estes this summer, living in D.C. while preparing to return to the University of Massachusetts Amherst for his senior year. He majored in finance with a political science minor and was already eyeing a future in public service.

Rep. Estes issued a statement calling Eric “a bright young man with a kind heart and a contagious smile.” Estes added, “Eric brought energy and purpose to our office. His loss is deeply felt by our entire team.”

The FBI confirmed Tuesday it is now assisting the Metropolitan Police Department in tracking down the shooters. While no federal charges have been filed, former D.C. homicide detective Ted Williams says the Bureau’s involvement likely stems from Eric’s political connection.

“When someone connected to Congress is killed, it elevates the case,” Williams told Fox News Digital. “Sadly, this isn’t an isolated incident — it’s becoming the norm in cities like D.C.”

Eric’s parents, Tamara and Robert Jachym, are devastated.

“He was full of promise, purpose, and heart,” the Jachyms said in a statement. “Eric loved nature. He could spend hours fishing, hiking, just being outdoors. But he also believed deeply in giving back. His work in Washington meant everything to him.”

The family described their son as a peace-seeker who “wanted to make the world more just,” adding that they are “struggling to process a loss that should never have happened.”

The shooting underscores growing fears about public safety in the nation’s capital. D.C. has seen a troubling rise in gun violence over the past year, with increasingly frequent reports of mass shootings and random attacks. Police have confirmed that more than one gunman was involved in this case, but have yet to release any surveillance footage or descriptions.

“This is a senseless tragedy,” Williams added. “But it’s not shocking anymore. That’s the real tragedy.”

The Metropolitan Police Department is offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling (202) 727-9099 or texting 50411.

Authorities are urging anyone with information — even the smallest detail — to come forward.

What began as a summer of promise has ended in heartbreak. As lawmakers return to Capitol Hill, one empty desk reminds them of the growing toll of violence in America’s cities.

“This could’ve been anyone’s son,” one Capitol Hill staffer told us. “Eric just wanted to help. And now he’s gone.”