A dramatic security alert brought Washington National Cathedral to a standstill after authorities discovered explosive materials in a vehicle parked near the iconic landmark.
The incident unfolded on Wednesday afternoon when cathedral security became suspicious of a man acting erratically near the building. When approached, the individual fled the scene, leaving behind his vehicle containing what officials later confirmed were "materials that could be used to make an explosive device."
Major Emergency Response
Bomb squad units and hazardous materials teams descended upon the cathedral grounds, cordoning off the area and evacuating staff and visitors. The immediate vicinity was transformed into a high-security zone as experts carefully examined the suspicious vehicle.
"We located materials that could be used to make an explosive device," confirmed a spokesperson for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), highlighting the seriousness of the discovery.
Arrest and Investigation
Law enforcement officials tracked down and apprehended the suspect, identified as 37-year-old Michael E. Cunningham of Pennsylvania. The arrest occurred approximately a mile from the cathedral grounds, bringing an end to the immediate threat.
The investigation has now expanded to include multiple law enforcement agencies, including the FBI's Washington Field Office, as they work to determine the suspect's motives and whether he acted alone.
Historic Site Security
The Washington National Cathedral, one of America's most prominent religious buildings and the site of numerous state funerals and national events, has implemented enhanced security measures following the incident.
Cathedral officials expressed gratitude for the swift response of security personnel and law enforcement, noting that their vigilance prevented a potentially catastrophic situation.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing security challenges facing high-profile public buildings in the nation's capital, even as investigators continue to piece together the events that led to Wednesday's dramatic evacuation.
