WASHINGTON (AP) — The FBI has arrested a suspect five years after an unidentified person placed two pipe bombs outside the headquarters of the Republican and Democratic national parties in Washington.
Agents arrested Brian J. Cole Jr., 30, of Woodbridge, Virginia, on explosive charges. Attempts to reach relatives of Cole were not immediately successful.
The ongoing mystery surrounding the identity of the bomber has been a major puzzle for law enforcement and has fueled a slew of conspiracy theories linking the event to the January 6, 2021 district riots by Trump supporters.
Details of the Arrest
Authorities did not disclose specific reasons for the timing of the arrest. However, they credited a renewed investigation and reevaluation of existing evidence under the direction of the FBI and the Justice Department. Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized that the arrest came as a result of diligent police work rather than new tips or witnesses.
Investigators have long sought public assistance in identifying a person captured on surveillance cameras the night before the insurrection. They faced challenges identifying the suspect's gender and motives, as ongoing analysis continued to determine a connection to the Capitol riots.
Credit card and cellphone data helped investigators trace purchases connected to the bomb-making activities, including items like galvanized pipes and timers. Cole’s vehicle was identified via a license plate reader in close proximity to the site shortly after the bombs were placed.
Investigative Insights
Surveillance footage revealed a suspect clad in dark clothing and sneakers, leading to discussions about the potential make of the shoes worn, identified as Nike Air Max Speed Turfs. The investigation included subpoenas for credit card records from various retailers to pinpoint the origin of the purchases.
Details surrounding the motive remain undisclosed, as well as whether there was a direct link between Cole’s actions and the subsequent Capitol assault.
Described as generally quiet, Cole lived in a family home with no prior criminal record and was not registered to vote. His immediate community has raised questions about what may have driven him to allegedly commit this act.
Two explosive devices discovered were reported to be roughly a foot long, filled with gunpowder and metal, designed to inflict potential harm had they detonated.
As the investigation continues, unanswered questions linger regarding Cole's motives and any association with broader events occurring on January 6.
