Marking Tragic Anniversary of Eric Tarpinian-Jachym Murder

Floor Speech

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Mr. ESTES. Mr. Speaker, I rise on the 1-year anniversary of the tragic murder of my intern, Eric Tarpinian-Jachym.

His family endured a devastating loss that no family should ever have to go through. Last summer, Eric was horrifically murdered in the Nation's Capital when he was shot while walking on the street. He was only 21 years old.

My staff and I feel the loss of Eric every day. We remember the time we spent with him at the Congressional Baseball Game last year when he remarked that he loved working on Capitol Hill. We remember when he sat in our front office and was always happy to greet visitors with a smile. We remember how he helped with the daily press briefings every single morning. Also, we mostly remember his dedication to serving others, which is why he came to Washington to intern in a congressional office.

We will never forget Eric for the rest of our lives, and we will never forget the evil that took him from the world.

The hearts of his family; his friends; my staff; my wife, Susan; and I are still impacted by the loss of a bright young man whose life was tragically cut short by senseless violence.

However, Eric did not die in vain. Eric's murder was a catalyst for criminal reform in Washington, D.C. Due to his death, President Trump brought in the National Guard to protect other innocent people like him, the millions of Americans who come to D.C. because of their love of country and public service. We can say that because of Eric, many people's lives were saved from the violence he fell victim to.

Through this tragedy, we find comfort in knowing that Eric is now in the hands of Jesus Christ, our loving Savior. I pray God will continue to provide peace and strength for Eric's family and everyone who knew him on this sad anniversary.

Mr. Speaker, I ask the House to observe a moment of silence to remember Eric Tarpinian-Jachym.

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