Washington, D.C. – U.S. Capitol Police arrested an unidentified man on Wednesday after he attempted to enter the Capitol Visitor Center carrying a machete and three knives.
The incident occurred just after 2 p.m. ET, as members of the public visited the Capitol Rotunda to pay respects to former President Jimmy Carter, who lies in state following his death on December 29 at the age of 100.
The suspect was apprehended during routine security screening when an X-ray scan of his bag revealed the weapons. Officers immediately detained the individual and discovered three additional knives inside the bag.
He was arrested on multiple charges of carrying a dangerous weapon. Authorities have not disclosed the man’s identity or his motive for attempting to enter the Capitol.
The arrest took place only hours before President-elect Donald Trump was scheduled to visit the Capitol to honour Carter and hold a meeting with Republican senators. Trump, who is set to take office on January 20, is among the dignitaries paying tribute to the 39th president during the public viewing period, which began Tuesday evening.
President Joe Biden, who was returning to Washington from Los Angeles on Wednesday after a briefing with California Governor Gavin Newsom on the ongoing wildfires, is expected to deliver a eulogy at Carter’s funeral. The service is scheduled to take place Thursday at Washington National Cathedral.
Jimmy Carter, remembered for his humanitarian work and leadership, was the longest-lived U.S. president, reaching the milestone of 100 years in October 2024. His passing has drawn tributes from across the political spectrum, with thousands of Americans lining up to pay their final respects in the Capitol Rotunda.
The incident underscores the heightened security measures in place during high-profile events at the Capitol, particularly with both the current and incoming presidents participating in memorial proceedings.
The investigation into the suspect’s intentions continues, authorities said.