On Monday, June 30, 2025, Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, a 21-year-old finance student at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and a congressional intern for Rep. Ron Estes of Kansas, was fatally shot in a tragic incident in Northwest Washington, D.C.
Eric Tarpinian-Jachym is survived by his parents, Tamara Tarpinian-Jachym and Robert S. Jachym, and siblings, Angela and Jeremy.
He is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Harry Tarpinian and Evelyn M. Tarpinian, who died in 2013 and 2003, respectively.
The shooting occurred around 10:28 p.m. near the intersection of 7th and M Street, when multiple suspects exited a vehicle and opened fire on a group of people.
Eric, along with an adult woman and a 16-year-old boy, was struck by gunfire.
Despite being rushed to a hospital, Eric succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday, July 1, 2025.
Authorities believe he was not the intended target of the shooting, which was described as a targeted attack.
Eric was a rising senior at UMass Amherst, majoring in finance with a minor in political science. He had joined Rep. Estes’ office in June 2025.
Tamara, Mother Of Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, Said Through Tears, “There’s Nothing to Say!”
Eric Tarpinian-Jachym was born to parents Tamara Tarpinian-Jachym and Robert S. Jachym as the youngest of three, both of whom played significant roles in his life.
Tamara and Robert raised Eric and his siblings, Angela and Jeremy, in a close-knit family in Granby, Massachusetts.
Eric’s mother, Tamara, is a dedicated and accomplished individual. She graduated from Worcester State College at the age of 34 with a degree in Occupational Therapy, an achievement that made her father, Harry Tarpinian, proud.
Most likely, it was Tamara’s commitment to her education and career that served as an inspiration to Eric, who pursued his own academic and professional goals with determination.
When asked to speak after Eric’s heartbreaking death, Tamara was too heartbroken to talk. With tears in her eyes, she quietly said, “There’s nothing to say.”
Her silence and sorrow showed just how deeply she was hurting over the loss of her youngest son, the one her father, Harry, had always lovingly called “The Little One” and “Sweetheart.”
Robert S. Jachym, Eric’s father, was described by Harry Tarpinian as “the best son-in-law a man could have.”
Known for his Polish heritage and nicknamed “Polakie” by Harry, Robert was cherished for his warm nature and his ability to engage in thoughtful conversations.
Meanwhile, as Eric’s loved ones take time to grieve in private, funeral arrangements haven’t been shared yet. During this heartbreaking time, our thoughts are with his parents, siblings, friends, and everyone who held Eric close.
Rest Easy, Eric Tarpinian Jachym!
