FBI Continues Search for Individual Responsible for Planting Pipe Bombs Prior to Jan. 6 Capitol Riot

Unsolved Mystery of the Pipe Bombs in Washington, D.C.

The night before the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack, an individual left two pipe bombs outside the headquarters of the Democratic and Republican parties in Washington, D.C. To this day, the person responsible remains at large. The FBI is offering a $500,000 reward for any information that leads to their arrest.

The Elusive Suspect

Despite a public campaign providing detailed maps, security camera video, and potential identifying information, investigators have been unable to solve the mystery. Over two years ago, investigators released footage of the suspect walking through the Capitol Hill neighborhood around the time the devices were placed. They also published photos and descriptions of the suspect’s apparel, including Nike Air Max Speed turf shoes, a face mask, glasses, and a gray hooded sweatshirt.

The Danger They Posed

The pipe bombs, although they did not detonate, were considered “viable” and posed a significant danger to the public. Found near the DNC and RNC headquarters by a passerby as Capitol rioters breached police barricades, these devices were a cause for concern.

The Timing and Method

The FBI stated that the bombs were placed between 7:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the evening before the attack. According to a report from the National Explosives Task Force, the bombs contained a single method of detonation — a 60-minute kitchen timer. There was no evidence of a second or remote detonation method, such as a cell phone.

Possible Intentions

It remains unclear why the pipe bombs did not detonate or if they were meant to at all. Law enforcement sources suggested that they may have been designed to explode the day before the electoral college certification at the Capitol.

Continuing the Investigation

The FBI, ATF, MPD, and USCP continue to prioritize the identification and capture of the perpetrator. A team of agents and scientists have invested thousands of hours working on the case. The FBI has conducted extensive geofencing of the area using cellphone data and assigned numerous agents to the investigation.

A Reward for Information

To encourage public participation, the FBI is offering a reward of $500,000 for any information that leads to the arrest of the person responsible for placing the pipe bombs.

Conclusion

Three years later, the unsolved mystery of the pipe bombs in Washington, D.C. continues to captivate investigators. The FBI, along with other law enforcement agencies, remains determined to bring closure to this case and hold the perpetrator accountable for their actions.

Read More of this Story at www.cbsnews.com – 2024-01-06 14:34:00