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Log in to viewThe following FAQs address questions received from AOA members following the May 21 shooting of two Israeli embassy staff members in Washington, DC, where law enforcement officials have identified Elias Rodriguez, an AOIA employee, as the suspect. If you have questions that are not addressed below, please reach out to [email protected].
Has the AOA issued a public statement?
Yes, the statement extends our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the victims and condemns this and all acts of violence. The full statement can be read on Osteopathic.org: https://osteopathic.org/2025/05/22/aoa-aoia-issue-statement-on-israeli-embassy-staff-shooting/
What is the AOA/AOIA’s employee vetting process?
The AOA and AOIA are committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment as organizations dedicated to protecting the health and safety of our staff, our members and the public. Our hiring and vetting processes include careful review of candidates’ credentials; professional history; background checks for federal, state, and local criminal activity; professional reference checks; and a review of social media (provided the accounts are not private).
Were there any red flags that were missed regarding this individual?
FBI officials involved with the case have stated that there was nothing in criminal records or other holdings that would have warranted concern about Mr. Rodriguez prior to the shooting.
What should I do if I am contacted by a reporter?
Please do not respond and immediately forward the message to [email protected]. The AOA’s Media Team is tracking and replying to all media inquiries on behalf of the organization.