Man With Machete Arrested at U.S. Capitol Before Trump Visit During Carter Viewing

Jan 8, 2025, 10:30 PM

U.S. Capitol Police arrested a Washington, D.C., man on Wednesday afternoon after he attempted to enter the Capitol Visitor Center (CVC) carrying a machete and three knives. The incident occurred just after 2:00 p.m. during routine security screening at the CVC's north doors. Officers spotted the weapons in the man's bag via the X-ray machine, promptly halted the machine, and apprehended the individual. He faces multiple charges of carrying a dangerous weapon and will be interviewed by Capitol Police investigators to determine his motive. At the time of the incident, the Capitol was hosting a public viewing for former President Jimmy Carter, who lies in state in the Rotunda. The Visitor Center was busier than usual as members of the public and officials, including President-elect Donald Trump, were expected to pay their respects. Capitol Police Chief J. Thomas Manger commended the officers for their vigilance, stating, 'Our officers know they cannot let their guard down for one second.'