FBI Arrests Suspect in Long-Running Pipe Bomb Case Near Capitol

Washington, D.C. — The FBI arrested a man on Thursday believed to have planted two pipe bombs the night before the January 6 Capitol riot in 2021, according to law enforcement sources.

The arrest comes after nearly five years of investigation to identify the individual, who appeared on surveillance footage wearing a hoodie, gloves, and a mask. The FBI had previously released video clips showing the suspect placing bombs outside the Democratic National Committee (DNC) headquarters and in an alley behind the Republican National Committee (RNC) building, both located just a few blocks from the U.S. Capitol.

According to the FBI, the bombs were viable and could have caused serious harm had they detonated. The discovery of the devices on January 6 redirected law enforcement resources away from the Capitol, where a mob breached security and attacked the building.

The investigation has faced numerous challenges, including poor-quality surveillance footage and the fact that masks were common during the pandemic. Investigators combed through thousands of video files and tips and analyzed data on Nike Air Max sneakers believed to be worn by the suspect.

The bombs were discovered approximately 15 hours after they were placed, allowing the suspect ample time to escape the area undetected.

This case garnered significant attention, especially during the Trump administration, with some indicating a potential link between the bombs and the Capitol riot. Dan Bongino, a former ally of Trump who is now the FBI’s deputy director, previously speculated on a podcast that the FBI may have known the suspect’s identity but was withholding the information.

Following the arrest, Bongino noted the increase in investigative resources and stated confidence in progress made in the case. The bureau had previously offered a reward of $500,000 for information leading to the identification of the suspect.