After two Israeli Embassy staffers got shot outside the Capital Jewish Museum, people started asking on Thursday if there was enough security at the event on Wednesday night. It’s kind of up in the air whether the museum had the right security in place, according to experts that ABC News talked to. Chief Pamela A. Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department confirmed during a press conference on Thursday afternoon that there were private security officers at the event, but there were no on- or off-duty MPD officers present.
“We’re trying to get the museum back up and running in the next few days, with all the security we need, so we can keep sharing the story of Jewish Washington with thousands of visitors from all over the world,” said Beatrice Gurwitz, the Executive Director of the Capital Jewish Museum. John Cohen, a former acting Homeland Security Undersecretary for Intelligence and Analysis and a contributor to ABC News, mentioned that even though the shooting happened near the Washington FBI Field Office, it doesn’t necessarily mean there was extra security. He emphasized the importance of heightened security measures for facilities associated with the Jewish community due to the current threat level.
Attorney General Pam Bondi, speaking to reporters outside the museum, admitted that she didn’t know about the security arrangements before the shooting. When asked if there was a security failure, considering the FBI office was nearby, Bondi denied any lapses. She mentioned that law enforcement responded quickly to the incident and praised the FBI, Metropolitan police, ATF agents, and U.S. Marshals for their swift action. Derek Meyer, a former Deputy Special Agent, explained that private entities usually beef up security during special events or when there’s a specific threat. He highlighted the role of off-duty law enforcement officers in providing additional security for major events.
Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser clarified that the event wasn’t classified as a “special event” that would require extra law enforcement resources. However, she pointed out that grant programs are available to help institutions enhance their security measures in response to concerns about violence and hate speech. Bondi mentioned that the suspect acted alone, and the investigation is ongoing. She expressed her sadness over the loss of life and emphasized the need to combat hate. Security has been increased in the area to ensure the safety of the Israeli Embassy and Jewish sites nationwide. Bondi also mentioned receiving support from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Trump in response to the tragedy. In a call with reporters, representatives from Jewish organizations called for more government funding for security at Jewish institutions in light of the shooting at the museum.