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Washington, D.C. – A man was taken into custody Tuesday after approaching the U.S. Capitol Building armed with a loaded shotgun, according to U.S. Capitol Police. The incident prompted a swift response from law enforcement and raised security concerns just days before President Trump’s scheduled State of the Union address.
The suspect, identified as 18-year-old Carter Camacho of Smyrna, Georgia, ran toward the West Front of the Capitol Building after parking a white Mercedes SUV near the area. Officers ordered Camacho to drop the weapon, and he complied, according to authorities. The incident occurred shortly after noon, prompting a temporary security alert.
Capitol Police Chief Michael Sullivan stated that Camacho was wearing a tactical vest and carrying multiple rounds of ammunition. A search of his vehicle revealed a Kevlar helmet and a gas mask, adding to the seriousness of the situation. “Who knows what could have happened if we hadn’t had officers here standing guard, like they do every single day,” Sullivan said at a press conference, as reported by the Associated Press.
Details of the Arrest and Investigation
Authorities say Camacho drove a white Mercedes SUV and parked in the 100 block of Maryland Avenue, Southwest, before exiting the vehicle and running toward the Capitol. He was intercepted by Capitol Police officers who quickly apprehended him. The suspect is not believed to be from the local area and had multiple addresses listed, according to Chief Sullivan. The vehicle itself was not registered to Camacho, further complicating the initial investigation.
Law enforcement officials have stated there is no ongoing threat and no other suspects are being sought in connection with the incident. The motive behind Camacho’s actions remains under investigation, including whether any members of Congress were specifically targeted. Congress is currently on a pre-scheduled recess, which may have influenced the timing of the event. The New York Post reported that the incident occurred just days before President Trump’s State of the Union address.
Security Measures and Previous Drills
Chief Sullivan emphasized the importance of the department’s ongoing training, and preparedness. He revealed that Capitol Police had conducted an “active shooter exercise” in the same location just months prior to Tuesday’s incident. “We do those active shooter exercises every single month – and that’s why we do it,” Sullivan explained. This proactive approach, he suggested, contributed to the swift and successful resolution of the situation.
The Capitol Police have video footage of the incident and are also requesting any additional footage from the public that may assist in their investigation. Camacho is currently being held on charges including unlawful activities, carrying a rifle without a license, possession of an unregistered firearm, and unregistered ammunition, according to a CNN report. He was not previously known to Capitol Police.
Authorities have assured the public that the incident will not impact the security arrangements for President Trump’s upcoming State of the Union address. The Washington Examiner confirmed that security protocols will remain in place for the high-profile event.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to determine the full extent of Camacho’s intentions and any potential connections to extremist groups or ideologies. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing security challenges facing the U.S. Capitol and the dedication of the Capitol Police in protecting lawmakers and the democratic process.
As the investigation continues, authorities will likely focus on uncovering Camacho’s background, motivations, and any potential accomplices. The incident raises questions about security protocols and the potential for future threats, prompting a review of existing measures to ensure the safety of the Capitol complex. Share your thoughts and reactions in the comments below.
