ROCHESTER, N.Y. — A local rabbi and elected officials are reacting after two staff members of the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C., were shot and killed while leaving an event at a Jewish museum.

The two staff members were a young couple on the verge of becoming engaged. Police say the suspect yelled, “Free, free Palestine” after he was arrested.

Rabbi Peter Stein of Temple B’rith Kodesh in Brighton said this was an attack on all Jewish people and he’s praying for peace. Here is his statement:

“This event is a terrible tragedy. I mourn the loss of the two young people who were killed. This is an attack on all Jewish people, not just a political attack on Israel. I pray for peace.”

The Brighton Police Department says it will increase its patrols at various locations and add a visible presence to reassure community members. Brighton has a large Jewish population and several synagogues.

Rep. Joe Morelle said he’s horrified by the attack and that no one should live in fear because of their faith. Here is his statement:

“I am horrified by the deadly attack at the Capital Jewish Museum last night. As we grieve this senseless act of violence, one truth is undeniable: no one should live in fear because of their faith. In this tragic moment, we stand in steadfast solidarity with the Jewish community, mourning the lives lost and reaffirming our resolve to confront antisemitism—and all forms of hate—wherever they exist.”

Rep. Claudia Tenney said she’s heartbroken by the antisemitic violence and said leaders must take immediate action to protect Jewish people.

Senator Chuck Schumer said he’s sickened by the shooting, describing it as another horrific instance of antisemitism, which is all too rampant.

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand called the attack antisemitic terrorism and said her prayers are with the victims and their families. Here is the statement:

“This is antisemitic terrorism, pure and simple. Two Israeli Embassy staffers, murdered on American soil, for no reason other than being Jewish. My prayers are with the victims and their families. I stand with the Jewish community in this moment; we will not tolerate this violence, and this perpetrator will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”