On Election Day, a 28-year-old Michigan man was detained at the U.S. Capitol after showing up to the Capitol Visitor Center with a torch and flare gun. The incident prompted U.S. Capitol Police (USCP) to halt public tours for the remainder of the day.
According to USCP Chief Thomas Manger, the man was undergoing a security check at approximately 12:30 p.m. when officers found a torch and flare gun in his jacket. Further inspection of his backpack revealed bottles containing a fuel-like residue. Officers also detected a faint smell of gasoline on him.
Police arrested the man and began questioning him later in the afternoon, though his identity and motive have not yet been disclosed. The suspect reportedly carried numerous documents, which he claimed were meant for Congress. Investigators are reviewing these papers to determine their relevance.
Manger noted that the man wore unusually heavy clothing for the warm November day and appeared hesitant when asked to place his belongings in the screening machine. Surveillance footage showed him walking slowly toward the visitor center and surveying the area.
USCP has heightened security measures in place, given the day’s significance. Manger clarified that there is no evidence linking the incident to the election.
The suspect’s vehicle was later found on 9th Street and Maryland Avenue NE. That location has since been cleared by police.
The incident coincided with nationwide Election Day security precautions, with states implementing measures to protect polling locations and election workers.
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