The FBI has made a major breakthrough in one of the most puzzling mysteries linked to the Jan. 6 Capitol attack — the pipe bombs planted outside the Republican and Democratic national headquarters the night before the riot.
Federal officials confirmed that a suspect, identified as Brian Cole, has been arrested after nearly five years of dead ends and nationwide searches. Two senior law enforcement officials said Cole was taken into custody on Thursday morning. The Justice Department is expected to officially announce the arrest later in the day.
Cole’s step-grandfather, Earl Donnette, confirmed he had spoken with investigators but declined to share more details. Cole’s father also declined to comment.
A Case That Stunned Investigators for Years
The bombs were placed outside the DNC and RNC headquarters on Jan. 5, 2021 — just hours before the attack on the U.S. Capitol. The devices were real and potentially deadly, found roughly 15 hours later on Jan. 6.
Investigators released surveillance footage, photos, and detailed descriptions — including the suspect’s estimated height and distinctive Nike Air Max Speed Turf shoes — in hopes of identifying the person responsible. The FBI eventually raised the reward for information to $500,000, but still, no arrest came.
Until now.
Conspiracy Theories and Public Pressure
The lack of answers over the years fueled countless conspiracy theories, including claims that the government planted the devices. Just last month, the FBI had to debunk a viral theory accusing a former Capitol Police officer.
Some lawmakers, including Rep. Barry Loudermilk of Georgia, pushed those theories online. On Thursday, Loudermilk said the FBI told him they are “confident” they have the right suspect — a man from northern Virginia — and he hopes to receive a full briefing soon.
Years of Work Behind the Scenes
Federal agents conducted more than 1,000 interviews and reviewed tens of thousands of video files during the investigation. Former federal prosecutor Greg Rosen said the arrest highlights the dedication of the career agents who have worked on the Jan. 6 cases despite political attacks.
“This is a testament to the incredible work of career FBI agents and prosecutors,” Rosen said. “The American people should be proud.”
Meanwhile, John Richter — a former Biden and Clinton staffer mistakenly questioned years ago — said his phone has been “blowing up” with friends reacting to the news of the real suspect finally being arrested.
Trump’s recent pardons for Jan. 6 rioters did not apply to the pipe bomb suspect, leaving this case fully active.
More details about Cole and how investigators finally closed in on him are expected to emerge at the upcoming Justice Department briefing.
