U.S. Capitol Police arrested a man on Tuesday who “smelled like fuel” and was carrying a torch, a flare gun, and other flammable liquids at the Capitol. The man, whose identity has not yet been released, was apprehended during the security screening at the Capitol Visitor Center, which was then closed for tours.
Sources informed Fox News that the man reportedly brought a 25-page manifesto that he planned to deliver to Congress.
The arrest occurred around 12:30 p.m. ET. Sources disclosed that Capitol Police noticed the strong smell of fuel and the suspect’s wet clothing, which prompted his immediate arrest. The suspect was found carrying a blowtorch, flare gun, and other flammable items. Investigators have not determined whether he intended self-harm.
Described as a White male in his late 20s, the man allegedly drove from Michigan overnight to reach the Capitol. At a press conference, Capitol Police Chief Thomas Manger said parts of the suspect’s clothing smelled like gasoline, but “it’s really unknown at this point what his intention was.” Manger added that there was no indication the incident was election-related.
The suspect, who was reportedly acting alone, was not previously known to Capitol Police. When reached for comment, a Capitol Police spokesperson declined to release additional information, stating the investigation is ongoing.
The arrest occurred on Election Day, with voters across the country casting ballots in races for the presidency and control of Congress. In anticipation of potential unrest, the Secret Service confirmed on Monday that security barriers were being installed around major sites in Washington, D.C., including the White House and vice president’s residence. Private businesses in cities like New York, Portland, and Washington, D.C., have also boarded up storefronts as a precaution.
The Secret Service released a statement saying it is “working closely” with federal, state, and local partners in both Washington, D.C., and Palm Beach County, Florida, to implement “heightened levels of safety and security” surrounding Election Day. Additional fencing has been set up around the Treasury Department and the Capitol, with bike-rack barriers used to fortify security.
