21-year-old congressional intern shot dead

A rising star in the world of politics, 21-year-old Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, was tragically killed in a shooting in Washington, D.C., cutting short a life dedicated to public service. A summer intern for Congressman Ron Estes of Kansas, Eric was described by many as a bright and driven young man who had already shown the makings of a future leader. His death has sent shockwaves through Capitol Hill and beyond.

The incident occurred late on the night of July 1 near the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. According to authorities, Eric was not the intended target but was caught in the crossfire of yet another act of senseless violence. He was found unresponsive and later died in the hospital. Two others—a 16-year-old boy and an adult woman—were also injured in the shooting but survived.

The Metropolitan Police Department confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and, as of now, no arrests have been made. In an effort to generate leads, a $25,000 reward is being offered for any information that leads to an arrest and conviction. Tipsters can contact MPD by phone or text to assist in the case.

Originally from Granby, Massachusetts, Eric was entering his senior year at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, majoring in finance and minoring in political science. He had traveled to Washington for the summer to intern on Capitol Hill—an opportunity he viewed not just as a stepping stone, but as a calling. His colleagues and mentors say he embodied the spirit of service and carried himself with maturity well beyond his years.

Congressman Ron Estes shared his grief and admiration, stating, “Eric greeted everyone with a cheerful smile. He was kind, hardworking, and deeply committed. We are grateful for the time he spent serving the people of Kansas’ 4th District.”

Massachusetts Congressman Richard Neal, who also teaches at UMass, reflected on the loss with deep sorrow. “Eric was the kind of young man every community hopes to raise. He believed in civic engagement and the power of public service. His death is not only a personal loss but a loss for our future.”

Eric’s death is the latest in a troubling pattern of increasing gun violence in Washington, D.C., where rising crime rates have left residents and visitors feeling increasingly vulnerable. His story has become a heartbreaking symbol of how quickly hope and potential can be stolen, simply by being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Friends, classmates, and colleagues took to social media to share tributes and memories. They described Eric as thoughtful, intelligent, and endlessly encouraging—a team player who always made others feel heard. Though his time in Washington was short, those who knew him say he left a lasting impression and was destined to do great things.

As his family and community mourn, Eric’s story has reignited urgent conversations about public safety, youth violence, and the profound human cost of inaction. For many, his death is a call to not only honor his legacy, but to address the conditions that allow tragedies like this to keep happening.

Eric Tarpinian-Jachym’s life, though brief, was one of promise, purpose, and principle. He believed in a better world and was working to help build it. His memory now lives on in the hearts of those he inspired—and in the fight for a safer, more compassionate future.