KU alumna killed in Washington, D.C. shooting

LAWRENCE (KSNT) - A former student of the University of Kansas is dead after a shooting near a museum in Washington D.C., Wednesday night.

Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky, an engaged couple, died in a shooting close by the Capital Jewish Museum on May 21. Milgrim and Lischinsky were part of the staff at the Israeli embassy in the nation's capital.

Chabad at KU released a statement on Thursday, May 22, following the attack. The organization confirmed that Milgrim was a former student at the University of Kansas.

"We are heartbroken to share the tragic loss of KU alumna and beloved KU Chabad community member Sarah Milgrim, who was murdered in a terrorist attack in Washington, D.C., alongside her beloved partner, Yaron Lischinsky. Sarah was a proud Jewhawk, a graduate of the University of Kansas, and an active, deeply loved member of our KU Jewish community. She joined us often for Shabbat dinners, holiday celebrations, and countless Jewish programs, always bringing her warm smile, gentle spirit, and deep passion for her Jewish heritage. Sarah was a shining light - kind, graceful, and deeply committed to peace, and the well-being of others.

While we are still in shock and disbelief, we must not give in to panic or despair. We are the Jewish people - a collective affirmation of life. In the face of this darkness, we respond by adding light: with acts of kindness, mitzvot, and love. Let us honor the memories of Sarah and Yaron, and bring more goodness into the world - because that's what we Jews do.

Now is the time to turn pain into purpose. Let's increase in unity, reach out to someone we've drifted from, and stand tall in our Jewish pride. Add a mitzvah in their memory, and let the world see that our response to hate is more life, more light, and more love."

Chabad at KU social media statement.

A suspect in the shooting was taken into custody. D.C. Police Chief Pamela Smith told reporters the suspect allegedly approached a group of four people, pulled out a handgun and opened fire. The suspect allegedly yelled, "Free, free Palestine" after he was taken into custody, according to a report from The Associated Press.

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