Breaking: Two people 'connected to a foreign embassy' shot dead in Washington DC, reports

A man and a woman who are reportedly connected to diplomatic staff have tragically been shot and killed in a shocking double homicide that unfolded in the heart of the US capital.

Reporter Christian Flores has reported via his X account that at least one worked for the Israeli Embassy and "a person of interest" has been taken into custody by police in connection with the shootings, "Law enforcement sources tell ABC News at least two people were shot outside of an event at the Capital Jewish Museum, at least one of whom is believed to be a member of the Israeli embassy staff. A person of interest is being by being questioned by police."

The fatal shooting took place on Wednesday evening at the intersection of 3rd and F Streets NW - a location steeped in high-level federal presence. The crime scene sits directly behind the FBI's field office and the U.S. attorney's office, and in front of the Capital Jewish Museum.

According to ABC's Beatrice Peterson, the pair were workers for a foriegn embassy staff. In a post from her X account, she said:

"Multiple sources have confirmed to me that the individuals shot are connected to a foreign embassy's diplomatic staff."

The brutal incident has sparked a major investigation by D.C. police, with the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force also called to the scene, according to sources familiar with the situation who spoke to News4.

Authorities have not yet disclosed whether the shooting was targeted or random, nor have they released details about the identities of the victims or a potential suspect.

What is clear, however, is the gravity of the situation. The shooting occurred just blocks from the D.C. police headquarters and within one of the most secure and surveilled areas of the city.

Emergency services swiftly descended on the scene, and a heavy police presence remains in the area.

In a statement, D.C. police urged members of the public to avoid the vicinity as the investigation continues.

More updates are expected as officials piece together the events that led to this deadly act of violence in the very shadow of America's law enforcement epicentre.