Official announcements from U.S. Capitol Police or related government agencies

Man Smelling of Fuel Arrested with Torch and Flare Gun at U.S. Capitol on Election Day

Nov 5, 2024, 07:18 PM

On Election Day, a man carrying a torch and a flare gun was arrested at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center after being stopped during a routine security screening by U.S. Capitol Police around 12:30 p.m. ET. The man, who reportedly smelled like fuel and had wet clothing, intended to deliver papers to Congress when he was detained. Authorities closed the Capitol Visitor Center to tours for the day as they investigated the incident. U.S. Capitol Police Chief Thomas Manger stated that the man had a torch, a flare gun, and possibly an accelerant such as gasoline. The man is believed to be from outside the Washington, D.C. area.