FBI Director Kash Patel called the arrest a major breakthrough in a nearly five-year investigation|@FBI|X
The FBI arrested a man yesterday, accused of planting pipe bombs outside the Republican and Democratic headquarters in Washington, DC, the night before the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot.
Officials say the suspect, 30-year-old Brian Cole Jr., faces several serious charges, including using and transporting explosive devices. Though the bombs did not explode, officials say that they were active and could have seriously injured and killed people.
Investigators say they linked Cole to the crime by reviewing older evidence, including his credit card purchases of pipes, timers, wires and cellphone records that placed him near both buildings on January 5. They also found his car driving in the area that same evening.
The FBI Director Kash Patel called the arrest a major breakthrough in a nearly five-year investigation.
The Justice Department says that the investigation is ongoing and more charges may still be filed.