Man Arrested After Running Towards US Capitol Building with Shotgun
Police in Washington, D.C., announced on Tuesday that they had arrested a man who ran towards the U.S. Capitol building while holding a shotgun. The incident, which occurred on February 17, 2026, prompted a swift response from law enforcement authorities.
Details of the Arrest
According to police reports, the man was apprehended after he dropped his weapon and complied when challenged by U.S. Capitol Police officers. The arrest took place without any shots being fired, and no injuries were reported. Authorities confirmed that Congress was not in session at the time, which likely minimized potential risks to lawmakers and staff.
Police Response and Public Safety Measures
Earlier in the day, Capitol Police had issued a public warning, urging people to avoid the area around the Capitol building. In a statement, they said, "Our officers just arrested a person with what appears to be a gun." This alert was part of standard safety protocols to ensure public security during such incidents.
The quick action by police highlights ongoing vigilance at the Capitol, which has seen increased security measures in recent years following past events. The man's motives are currently under investigation, and further details are expected as the case progresses.
