WASHINGTON: An 18-year-old man wearing a tactical vest and carrying a loaded shotgun was arrested after running toward the US Capitol, prompting a swift response from United States Capitol Police (USCP) officers.
The arrest occurred shortly after noon on the Lower West Terrace of the Capitol. According to the USCP, officers “surrounded and arrested a man who ran toward the US Capitol with a loaded shotgun.” The suspect was later identified as Carter Camacho of Smyrna, Georgia.
Capitol Police said Camacho drove a white Mercedes-Benz SUV to the 100 block of Maryland Avenue Southwest before exiting the vehicle holding the shotgun near the West Front of the Capitol. He was confronted by officers as he approached the building.
“As he approached the Capitol, Capitol Police officers observed this individual, challenged him and ordered him to drop the weapon and get on the ground, which he did comply with. He was then taken into custody, ” Capitol Police Chief Michael Sullivan said at a news conference.
Sullivan said the suspect “made it to the base of the steps leading to the Capitol before being apprehended.” Officers drew their firearms during the encounter. Camacho complied with orders and was taken into custody without injury.
“Thanks to the quick actions of the officers, no one was hurt, ” the USCP said in a statement.
Police said the suspect was wearing a tactical vest and tactical gloves and was carrying multiple rounds of ammunition. A Kevlar helmet and gas mask were found inside the SUV, which was located in front of the US Botanic Garden on Maryland Avenue, SW. Authorities said the vehicle was not registered in his name.
“This individual had a tactical vest on, ” Sullivan said, as well as “tactical gloves.”