Man Detained at US Capitol Visitor Center with Flare Gun and Suspected Accelerant

On Tuesday, an individual was apprehended at the US Capitol Visitor Center, found to be in possession of a flare gun and a torch lighter. Law enforcement officials detained the man during a security screening, noting that he emitted a strong odor of fuel. This apprehension resulted in the Capitol Visitor Center suspending tours for the remainder of the day. Authorities reported that the man was undergoing questioning and an investigation was in progress, although they stated there was no indication linking the incident to the election. United States Chief of Police J Thomas Manger stated that a white male approached an entrance of the Capitol Visitors Center shortly after 12:00 local time (17:00 GMT) on Tuesday. During the screening process, as the man placed his bag on the conveyor belt, officials discovered an object resembling a firearm and two bottles. These bottles are now believed to have contained an accelerant, such as gasoline, though this remains under investigation. Officials indicated that the accelerant’s odor was detectable because one of the bottles was leaking through the bag. Subsequently, the individual was taken into custody. Authorities also reported that the man possessed papers, which are currently being examined.