U.S. Capitol Police arrested a man armed with a gun outside the U.S. Capitol building Monday, authorities said, after stopping his vehicle at the north barricade. Officers quickly took the driver into custody and temporarily shut down the area while detectives collected evidence. Photos from the scene showed officers escorting the man to a police cruiser near the Senate side of the complex.
According to DC News Now, U.S. Capitol Police said in a statement that investigators are working to learn more about the suspect and why he drove to the Capitol. The outlet published images of the arrest and reported that the north access point would remain closed while the investigation continued.
Why Weapons Are Banned On Capitol Grounds
Firearms, explosives and other dangerous items are explicitly banned on U.S. Capitol Grounds, even for individuals who hold carry permits, and violations can result in arrest and criminal charges. As outlined by the United States Capitol Police, the complex is governed by strict regulations that bar weapons and carve out exceptions only for on-duty law enforcement operating under defined criteria.
Not The First Recent Weapons Stop At The Capitol
The arrest continues a string of high-profile weapons-related stops at the Capitol this year. In February, U.S. Capitol Police arrested an 18-year-old who ran toward the West Front carrying a loaded shotgun. Authorities later charged him with unlawful possession of a firearm on Capitol grounds, according to NBC4 Washington.
What Investigators Are Looking At Next
U.S. Capitol Police said investigators are gathering evidence and examining why the man drove to the complex, while the north barricade remained closed during the probe. Officials asked the public to steer clear of the area while detectives worked and said they would release additional details once they are confirmed, per DC News Now.
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