DailyKenn.com – Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, a 21-year-old rising senior at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and summer intern in the office of U.S. Rep. Ron Estes, was fatally shot Monday night near the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Northwest Washington.
Metropolitan Police said several suspects exited a black Acura and opened fire on a group of people at 7th and M streets NW shortly before 10:30 p.m. Tarpinian-Jachym, believed to be an innocent bystander, was struck by gunfire and died at a local hospital on Tuesday.
A woman and a 16-year-old boy were also shot. Police believe the teen may have been connected to an earlier altercation, though authorities emphasized that the shooting was not a shootout between parties.
The suspect vehicle has been recovered, and investigators are working with the FBI to enhance surveillance footage. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is also assisting with ballistics analysis. Authorities are offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to arrests and convictions.
Tarpinian-Jachym, a finance major with a minor in political science, had begun his internship in June. Colleagues and university officials described him as warm, dedicated, and enthusiastic about public service. Rep. Estes said Tarpinian-Jachym was known for his cheerful demeanor and bright spirit.
Friends from a fellowship program with the Fund for American Studies remembered him as charismatic and supportive, noting his ability to bring people together. One peer described him as "my twin brother" due to their close bond.
The shooting marked the 85th homicide in Washington, D.C., this year. Local leaders, including D.C. Police Chief Pamela Smith and Mayor Muriel Bowser, pledged to pursue justice in the case and emphasized the city’s ongoing efforts to reduce violent crime.
Sources:
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Washington Post – Shooters emerged from car in D.C. slaying of congressional intern
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People – 21-Year-Old College Student Killed as Bystander While Interning in D.C.
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Western Mass News – UMass intern killed in Washington D.C. remembered
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