Man from Virginia detained in connection with January 6 pipe bomb incident

Authorities announced Thursday that a man from Virginia has been taken into custody for allegedly placing pipe bombs near the headquarters of both major political parties on the night before the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot. This marks the first major development in the case after nearly five years, a case that has fueled numerous far-right conspiracy theories.

Brian Cole Jr., 30, from Woodbridge, Virginia, faces federal charges including interstate transport of an explosive device and attempted destruction with explosives. Attorney General Pam Bondi indicated that additional charges could be forthcoming and confirmed the investigation is still active, refraining from labeling the act as politically motivated.

The pipe bombs were positioned outside the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and Republican National Committee (RNC) offices on the evening of January 5, 2021, but did not detonate. Authorities discovered the devices the following day as supporters of then-President Donald Trump attacked the U.S. Capitol to obstruct the certification of Joe Bidens election win.

Over the years, the FBI had released numerous images and videos of a masked suspect, eventually raising the reward for information leading to an arrest to $500,000. Bondi credited Coles arrest to a thorough reevaluation of existing evidence. She noted that the FBI and other law enforcement agencies meticulously examined materials that had been held for years.

There was no new tip, there was no new witness, just careful and persistent investigative work, Bondi stated. FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino emphasized the agencys determination to pursue the suspect relentlessly. No one can place explosive devices in our capital and disappear without accountability, he added.

According to court documents, Cole lived with family members in Woodbridge, approximately 20 miles south of Washington, and was employed at a bail bonds office. Evidence includes purchases of materials linked to the pipe bombs and cell phone tracking on the day the devices were deployed.

The prolonged lack of resolution in the case previously fueled far-right conspiracy theories, including unfounded claims that the bomber might have been a Capitol police officer. Following his second term, former President Trump granted pardons to over 1,500 individuals involved in the Capitol attack.

Author: Maya Henderson