Man Arrested for Starting Fire Near U.S. Capitol Hours After Another Weapon Arrest
A man is arrested for trying to set a fire near the Capitol—just hours after a separate weapon arrest—amid heightened security. 🌐 #News #WashingtonDC #Crime
WASHINGTON, D.C. – A tense scene unfolded near the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday when a man was arrested for allegedly attempting to set a fire in the area. The arrest came just hours after another alarming security breach at a Capitol checkpoint. The incidents raised concerns about safety as the public gathered to honor the late President Jimmy Carter during his public viewing.
A Suspicious Blaze Near the Capitol
Around 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, U.S. Capitol Police officers responded to reports of a man attempting to start a fire in front of the Ulysses S. Grant Memorial on First Street NW. Upon arrival, officers discovered that the suspect had placed a bag on top of his parked car and set it on fire. However, the fire quickly self-extinguished as law enforcement approached.
The 35-year-old man, whose identity was not immediately released, was arrested for unlawful activities. Authorities also noted that the suspect’s car had been spray-painted, which prompted further scrutiny.
Police declared the vehicle suspicious and called in the U.S. Capitol Police Hazardous Incident Response Division, who determined by 7 p.m. that there was no immediate danger. Investigators later confirmed that accelerants had been found in the bag.
Another Arrest at the Capitol Visitor Center
Earlier in the day, Capitol Police had another close call when they arrested a 44-year-old local man, Mel J. Horne, after he attempted to bring a machete and three knives through a screening checkpoint at the Capitol Visitor Center. Officers spotted the weapons in Horne’s bag during the X-ray scan. The arrest occurred just after 2 p.m.
“These two incidents happened just hours apart, and our officers responded swiftly and effectively,” said U.S. Capitol Police Chief J. Thomas Manger in a statement.
“Twice today our officers stopped a man who could have been a danger to the Capitol Hill community. This vigilance is critical during this time of heightened security.”
Security Remains Tight Amid Public Viewings
Despite the two arrests, authorities assured the public that the viewings of President Jimmy Carter’s body, which were taking place as the incidents unfolded, would continue without interruption. The security measures were not affected, and police remained on high alert throughout the evening.
RELATED TOPICS: Crime | Politics | Washington, D.C.
Sign Up for Our Newsletter
We value your feedback! Did you find this article informative, inspiring, or thought-provoking? Leave a comment below and join the discussion. We appreciate your opinion and look forward to hearing from you!
