Two 17-year-olds, Jaylin Lucas and Kevin Thomas Jr., were arrested in connection with the murder of Capitol Hill intern Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, a rising senior at the University of Massachusetts. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro revealed that both suspects were charged with murder while armed, which constitutes first-degree murder under D.C. law, and will be tried in adult court.
The U.S. Attorney, Jeanine Pirro, criticized D.C. leadership for its leniency toward juvenile offenders, stating that these teens, with prior violent records in family court, do not need protection but should be held accountable. Pirro also mentioned the ongoing investigation into a third suspect, emphasizing the importance of justice and accountability for the victim’s family.
Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith expressed confidence in the impending arrest of the third individual, stating that the arrests of the two suspects and the pending third arrest would bring some measure of peace to Eric’s loved ones. Eric, who had been interning for Rep. Ron Estes, R-Kan., was fatally shot just one mile from the White House in June.
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser joined the news conference, condemning gun violence in the city while declining to comment directly on expanding jurisdiction for younger offenders. She supported the decision to charge the teens as adults, echoing Pirro’s sentiments about holding young offenders accountable.
FBI Director Kash Patel praised the efforts of the FBI, MPD, and the Justice Department, highlighting the promise of safety and justice in D.C. as per President Trump’s initiatives. Attorney General Pam Bondi reaffirmed that the suspects will face severe justice if convicted, offering some comfort to the victim’s family.
The House of Representatives observed a moment of silence in memory of Tarpinian-Jachym, with Rep. Ron Estes describing him as a kind and thoughtful individual who brought positivity to his office. The intern’s family, including his mother Tamara, father Robert, and siblings Angela and Jeremy, remains in mourning.
The case has sparked broader discussion on juvenile justice and gun violence in the nation’s capital, with the President’s approach to crime drawing mixed reactions. Additionally, a recent violent attack in D.C. involving another teen suspect highlights the ongoing concerns about such incidents in the city.