College Intern Eric Tarpinian-Jachym Fatally Shot in Washington, D.C., Community Mourns Rising Star
Washington, D.C. – July 6, 2025
Tragedy struck the nation’s capital this weekend as authorities confirmed the death of Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, a 21-year-old college student and congressional intern, following a fatal shooting in Northeast Washington, D.C. The incident has sent shockwaves through both academic and political circles, as tributes pour in for a young man widely regarded as intelligent, compassionate, and deeply committed to public service.
According to the Metropolitan Police Department, officers responded to reports of gunfire in the 1500 block of Maryland Avenue NE around 9:30 p.m. on Friday, July 4. Upon arrival, they found Eric suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency responders transported him to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly afterward.
Authorities have not released full details about the motive or circumstances surrounding the shooting. As of Sunday, no arrests had been made, and police are asking the public for help in identifying those responsible. Investigators believe the shooting may have been targeted but have not confirmed whether Eric was the intended victim. Surveillance footage and witness statements are currently under review.
Eric, a political science major at a prominent Northeastern university, had recently started a prestigious internship on Capitol Hill. Friends and colleagues described him as a rising star—passionate about democracy, driven by justice, and always willing to help others.
“He had a bright future ahead of him,” said one of his professors. “Eric was the kind of student you hoped would go into public service—smart, thoughtful, and full of heart.”
The congressional office where Eric interned released a statement Saturday afternoon mourning his loss. “We are devastated by the death of Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, who served as a valued intern in our office. His dedication and energy left a lasting impression, and his absence will be deeply felt.”
Eric’s family, who traveled to D.C. upon hearing the news, released a brief statement through a spokesperson: “Our son was a light in our lives and in the lives of so many others. We are heartbroken. We ask for privacy as we process this unimaginable loss.”
His death has reignited concerns over the city’s rising gun violence, particularly among young people. Over the past year, Washington, D.C. has seen a troubling surge in shootings, with many of the victims being under the age of 25. Local leaders and residents have called for renewed urgency in addressing illegal firearms and improving youth safety, especially during large public gatherings and nighttime hours.
Mayor Muriel Bowser responded to the news with a message of condolence and a vow to increase police presence in the area where the shooting occurred.
“This is a heartbreaking loss,” Mayor Bowser said in a statement. “Eric came to Washington to learn, to serve, and to contribute. His life was cut short by senseless violence. We must do more to ensure the safety of every young person in our city.”
Community members gathered Saturday evening for an impromptu candlelight vigil in Lincoln Park, not far from where the shooting took place. Dozens of people lit candles, shared memories, and called for justice and accountability.
“He didn’t deserve this,” said a fellow intern who met Eric during orientation just weeks ago. “He was curious about everything, asked great questions, and wanted to make a difference. He was going to be someone.”
A GoFundMe campaign launched by friends of the family has already raised thousands of dollars to assist with funeral expenses and to support a scholarship fund in Eric’s name. The campaign describes him as “a son, a student, a friend, and a future leader taken far too soon.”
The Metropolitan Police Department continues to investigate and is urging anyone with information to come forward. A reward of up to $25,000 is being offered for information leading to an arrest and conviction.
As tributes continue to pour in, those who knew Eric Tarpinian-Jachym are holding tightly to memories of his kindness, ambition, and belief in a better world—a belief that, even in tragedy, lives on in the people he inspired.