Promising Young Intern Killed in D.C. Shooting: “He Had So Much Ahead of Him”

What should have been a summer of opportunity ended in tragedy for 21-year-old Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, a congressional intern who was shot and killed in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday night. Police believe Eric was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.

The shooting happened near the Walter E. Washington Convention Center late on July 1. Eric, a rising senior at UMass Amherst, was found unconscious and later died at the hospital. Two others—a 16-year-old boy and a woman—were also shot but are expected to survive.

Not the Intended Target

According to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), Eric wasn’t the intended target. The area has seen a spike in gun violence recently, and investigators are still searching for answers. No arrests have been made so far.

The MPD is offering a $25,000 reward for any information that leads to an arrest. Anyone with tips can call (202) 727-9099 or text 50411.

A Young Man With Big Dreams

Eric was spending his summer in D.C. interning for Congressman Ron Estes of Kansas. Originally from Granby, Massachusetts, he was studying finance and political science at UMass and had dreams of working in government and serving his country.

Those who knew Eric say he had a warm heart, a sharp mind, and a deep sense of purpose.

“I’ll remember his kind heart and the way he greeted everyone with a cheerful smile,” said Rep. Ron Estes. “We’re grateful for his service to Kansas’ 4th District and the nation.”

“Eric embodied what it means to be part of a community dedicated to learning, civic duty, and public service,” added Rep. Richard Neal of Massachusetts, who also teaches at UMass.

“There is no greater pain than the loss of a child,” Neal said.

Gun Violence Hits Home

Eric’s death is part of a disturbing trend in D.C., where gun violence continues to take innocent lives. He now joins the heartbreaking list of young people with bright futures stolen by senseless shootings.

Tributes Pour In

Friends, classmates, and coworkers have flooded social media with tributes, remembering Eric as kind, humble, and driven. Even before graduating, many say he already represented the best of what public service can be.

A Heartbreaking Reminder

As the investigation continues, Eric’s story stands as a painful reminder of the human cost of gun violence. His death has sparked an outpouring of grief—and renewed calls for action from across the country.

Eric Tarpinian-Jachym had the heart of a public servant. Now, the nation mourns the future that could have been.