WASHINGTON – U.S. Capitol Police are investigating an “active bomb threat” near the U.S. Capitol building, which led to the evacuation of the complex.
Officials said police are investigating a report of a possible explosive device linked to a pickup truck outside the Library of Congress.
“This is an active bomb threat investigation,” Capitol Police wrote on Twitter.
Several congressional employees confirmed to USA TODAY that they have been told of the active bomb threat. According to alerts sent out by the USCP, they also closed roads around the Capitol complex and evacuated most office buildings.
The Capitol Police lead the response, which includes the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Metropolitan Police.
In a brief statement, the FBI’s office in Washington noted “reports of a suspicious vehicle and a bomb threat near the Library of Congress.”
Both houses of Congress are currently out of session for their summer vacations. Most lawmakers are not currently in their offices in the capital.
Patricia McCabe, the Supreme Court’s communications officer, said the Supreme Court building was also evacuated shortly after 10 a.m. EST. It has been closed to the public due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser said she was briefed on the ongoing investigation and urged the public to stay away from the Capitol District.
The threat of explosives near the Capitol evoked a chilling aspect in the investigation into the January 6 riots that remains unresolved.
Two bombs were placed near the headquarters of the Republican and Democratic National Committees the night before the deadly Capitol siege. In this investigation, federal authorities have repeatedly appealed for public assistance in locating a suspect who was seen wearing a gray hooded shirt.
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