Man Arrested at U.S. Capitol with Flare Gun and ‘Manifesto’
A man was arrested at the U.S. Capitol on Election Day after attempting to enter the visitor center with a flare gun and a torch lighter. The suspect, Austin M. Olson, 28, from Westland, Michigan, was taken into custody after security personnel detected fuel fumes coming from his clothing during the screening process.
Incident Details
Olson’s arrest occurred Tuesday afternoon, coinciding with the day Americans went to the polls. According to the United States Capitol Police (USCP), officers became suspicious as Olson passed through security and asked him to place his bag and jacket in the X-ray machine. It was during this inspection that they discovered the lighter and flare gun, prompting a deeper search.
In addition to the flare gun and lighter, police found two bottles of fuel in Olson’s possession. They also discovered what appeared to be a manifesto, along with a letter addressed to Congress that expressed his views on tensions in the Middle East. Specific details about the contents of these documents have not been disclosed.
Security Measures and Investigation
As a precaution, the Capitol building was closed for the day while police conducted their investigation. Following Olson’s arrest, authorities tracked his movements to a vehicle parked nearby. A K9 unit and hazardous incident response team were deployed to inspect the sedan, but they did not find anything of concern.
U.S. Capitol Police Chief J. Thomas Manger emphasized the importance of the officers’ quick actions, stating, “If our officers did not stop this man, yesterday would have been a very different story than this one.” He praised the dedication of the Capitol Police, who continue to work diligently during a heightened security environment.
Charges and Background
Authorities believe Olson traveled to the Washington, D.C., area from Michigan on Monday, but the exact intentions behind his actions remain unclear. He is facing multiple charges, including possession of a prohibited weapon, unlawful activities, and disorderly conduct.
This incident highlights ongoing security concerns at the Capitol, especially during significant political events such as elections. The swift response from law enforcement underscores their commitment to maintaining safety and order within the nation’s seat of government.
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