FBI Detains Suspect Linked to DC Pipe Bomb Incident
The FBI has arrested a man believed to be responsible for planting pipe bombs near the Republican and Democratic National Committee offices on the eve of the January 6, 2021 Capitol attack, according to two law enforcement sources.
The arrest marks a major breakthrough in a case that has puzzled investigators for almost five years. Until now, the suspect had only been seen in blurry surveillance images, covered head-to-toe in a hoodie, gloves, and face mask.
The bombs were placed outside the DNC and in an alley behind the RNC—just blocks from the US Capitol. Then–Vice President-elect Kamala Harris unknowingly passed within 20 feet of the device at the DNC the next morning. The discovery of the explosives diverted police resources away from the Capitol shortly before rioters breached the building.
The FBI confirmed that both bombs were real and capable of causing serious harm. Their timing has fueled conspiracy theories linking the bomber to the events of January 6.
Investigators spent years combing through tens of thousands of videos, analyzing cellphone tower data, chasing hundreds of tips, and even tracking sales of the suspect’s Nike Air Max shoes—only about 25,000 pairs matched the style sold at that time. Still, progress was slowed by grainy footage, winter clothing, and the pandemic-era use of masks, which made the suspect blend in.
Despite offering a $500,000 reward and conducting more than a thousand interviews, investigators struggled to identify the bomber. The devices were not found until 15 hours after they were planted, giving the suspect plenty of time to escape unnoticed.
The case drew political attention, especially from allies of former President Donald Trump who promoted unfounded claims that the bombing was part of an “inside job.” One of those allies, Dan Bongino—now the FBI’s deputy director—had previously accused the bureau of hiding the suspect’s identity. After joining the FBI, he continued pushing for progress in the investigation and publicly claimed that agents were “closing in,” even when some early leads had gone cold.
In recent months, however, investigators developed more promising information. Just last month, Bongino posted on X that the FBI had expanded resources, brought in additional officers and detectives, and launched internal reviews to reassess the case.