By Joanna Putman
Police1
WASHINGTON — U.S. Capitol Police arrested a man attempting to enter the Capitol Visitor Center with a flare gun, a torch lighter and other items that raised security concerns, WUSA reported.
The man was stopped after officers detected a strong gasoline odor from his belongings as they passed through a security scanner, according to the report. Capitol Police Chief Thomas Manger confirmed that the man’s clothing carried a faint smell of gasoline, but he had not appeared to douse himself.
The man reportedly stated he had documents he wanted to deliver to Congress, according to the report. His vehicle was later located and cleared by police. Capitol tours were temporarily suspended while the incident was investigated. Manger said there was no indication that the incident had anything to do with the election.
Enhanced security was in place across Washington, D.C., as voters went to the polls for the 2024 General Election, according to the report. Temporary fencing was placed around key government sites, and local businesses took precautions, with some boarding up windows near the White House.
D.C. Police Chief Pamela Smith indicated that officers would be on extended shifts through Inauguration Day to address any potential unrest.
