Armed Teen Stopped Near U.S. Capitol After Rapid Police Response
Security officers at the U.S. Capitol quickly detained an 18-year-old man carrying a shotgun near the congressional complex on Monday, preventing what officials say could have become a dangerous situation.
Authorities confirmed that the individual was taken into custody before reaching any restricted buildings or secured perimeters.
No shots were fired, and no injuries were reported.
Swift Intervention by Capitol Police
According to United States Capitol Police, officers observed the suspect approaching Capitol grounds with what appeared to be a long gun.
He had exited a parked vehicle and moved rapidly toward the area before being stopped.
Police ordered him to drop the weapon and lie on the ground.
He complied and was arrested without incident.
Officials later identified the suspect as an 18-year-old from Smyrna.
Authorities said he was wearing tactical gear, including gloves and a vest.
A Kevlar-style helmet and gas mask were reportedly recovered from the vehicle.
The shotgun was loaded, and additional ammunition was found in his possession.
Investigation Ongoing
Law enforcement stated that the suspect did not enter any government buildings, and Congress was not in session at the time of the incident.
Officials have not publicly identified a specific motive, and investigators continue to examine the circumstances leading up to the arrest.
Police also noted that the vehicle used in the incident was not registered to the suspect and that he has ties to multiple addresses.
Charges announced include unlawful activity, possession of an unregistered firearm, unlicensed weapon carrying, and ammunition violations.
Heightened Security Since 2021
Security around the United States Capitol has remained elevated since the January 6, 2021 attack.
Officers routinely monitor for potential threats and conduct preparedness drills in and around the complex.
Officials emphasized that the rapid response in this case reflected those ongoing readiness efforts.
Separate Security Incidents
Authorities also referenced unrelated recent security events in Washington, including an unlawful entry arrest near the White House complex and a vehicle fire involving a law-enforcement SUV.
Officials said those incidents did not disrupt protective operations.
