Man Arrested at U.S. Capitol with Torch, Flare Gun
On November 5, 2024, U.S. Capitol Police arrested a man attempting to enter the Capitol Visitor Center (CVC) in Washington, D.C. The individual, described as a white male in his late 20s, was found carrying a blowtorch and a flare gun and reportedly smelled strongly of fuel. During the routine security screening, officers detected the odor and discovered the weapons in his possession. Additionally, a 25-page manifesto containing anti-government and anti-Israel statements was found with him.
The suspect had driven from Michigan to the nation's capital, arriving on Election Day. His vehicle was located near the intersection of 9th Street and Maryland Avenue NE and was subsequently cleared by authorities. The Capitol Visitor Center was temporarily closed to tours while the investigation was conducted.
Capitol Police Chief Thomas Manger stated that there is no indication the incident was related to the election. He noted that while the man's clothing smelled of gasoline, it did not appear he had doused himself. The suspect informed officers he had papers he wanted to deliver to Congress.
This incident occurred amid heightened security measures in Washington, D.C., on Election Day. Temporary fencing was installed around key locations, including the White House and the Naval Observatory, in anticipation of potential unrest. Additionally, the FBI reported non-credible bomb threats at polling stations across multiple states, believed to have originated from Russian sources.
The arrest underscores the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in securing public spaces, particularly during significant national events. Authorities continue to investigate the suspect's motives and any potential connections to broader threats.
