US Capitol Visitor Center was temporarily closed on Tuesday after Capitol Police arrested a man who was carrying a torch and flare gun during a routine security screening. Authorities said the individual, in his late 20s, smelled of fuel and had documents described as a “manifesto” referring to the Middle East conflict.
Capitol Police confirmed that the suspect had traveled from Michigan to the Capitol and was arrested after attempting to enter the center, which was closed for the remainder of the day. The police department assured the public that the incident does not appear to be linked to the ongoing presidential election.
The man was found to be carrying documents referencing global conflicts, but there is no indication that the materials were related to the election or political figures. Capitol Police also tracked his vehicle, which was near the scene, before clearing the area.
Though Congress is not currently in session, the House of Representatives was set to hold a brief pro forma session in the evening. Despite the lack of activity on Capitol Hill, security has been heightened across Washington DC and nationwide due to Election Day, with concerns about potential threats against key institutions.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the FBI have issued warnings about the possibility of attacks from domestic violent extremists (DVEs) aiming to disrupt the election process. Their October bulletin highlighted concerns about grievances being fueled by narratives surrounding the election, which could incite violence, similar to the unrest seen in 2020.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident, though no further details have been released at this time.
