Pipe bomb suspect arrested on January 5, concluding years-long search

Authorities have arrested a man linked to two pipe bombs discovered outside the Republican and Democratic National Committee headquarters on the night before the January 6 Capitol riot, nearly five years ago. The arrest was confirmed Thursday by sources familiar with the investigation to CBS News.

The individual is expected to appear in federal court in Washington, D.C., later on Thursday. The specific charges have not been publicly disclosed. This arrest concludes an extensive, years-long manhunt that included a $500,000 reward for information leading to the suspect's capture.

The devices were safely defused and did not detonate. Officials have yet to release details about the suspects identity or the circumstances that led to his apprehension. Earlier this year, the FBI had shared CCTV footage showing a person wearing a light grey hooded sweatshirt and carrying a backpack placing an object near a bench outside the Democratic National Committee building. The footage also appears to show the same individual placing a second device at a different location.

Both bombs were placed the evening before the Capitol attack and were discovered as rioters began entering the building. At the time, senators were meeting to certify the 2020 presidential election results, in which Joe Biden defeated Donald Trump.

The rally preceding the riot drew approximately 2,0002,500 attendees, including members of far-right groups. Many carried weapons, and the crowd moved toward the Capitol after former President Trump encouraged supporters to march "peacefully" while also repeating unproven claims of election fraud.

During the chaos, rioters forced their way into the Capitol, overwhelming law enforcement for nearly four hours. The two pipe bombs were found by a bystander and were made of pipes, wires, kitchen timers, and homemade black powder. According to reports, they were designed to detonate via a 60-minute timer but did not explode.

Law enforcement had actively searched for the suspect for years. Earlier this year, President Trump issued pardons and commutations for more than 1,500 individuals charged or convicted in connection with the riot and instructed the Department of Justice to drop pending cases for others.

Author: Grace Ellison