Capitol Police apprehended a man with a torch, flare gun, and suspicious materials at the U.S. Capitol, intensifying security concerns.

A security screening at the Capitol Visitor Center led to the arrest of a man with potentially dangerous items on Election Day, as Fox News reports.

On the afternoon of Election Day, at approximately 12:30 p.m., U.S. Capitol Police stopped a man at the Capitol Visitor Center.

The individual, who had driven overnight from Michigan, emitted a faint gasoline odor, prompting a more thorough inspection by security personnel.

The suspect, a white male in his late-20s, was found in possession of a blow torch, a flare gun, and additional flammable liquids. His wet clothing smelled of gasoline, which raised immediate security concerns among the officers present.

Chief Thomas Manger of the Capitol Police reported that the man's vehicle, which was found several blocks away from the Capitol, was seized for further investigation.

The heightened security measures already in place at the Capitol were part of a routine protocol that will continue through the inauguration.

Manifesto and Flammable Devices Discovered

During the security check, officers discovered the man was carrying a 25-page manifesto intended for Congress. This document, alongside two bottles and what appeared to be a firearm in his backpack, are currently under close examination by investigators.

Capitol Police extracted several items from the suspect's jacket, including a lighter and torch lighter. The backpack, when removed from the conveyor belt, emitted a stronger scent of gasoline, noted Manger.

Further inspection revealed that at least one of the bottles in the backpack was leaking, which contributed to the strong gasoline odor. The suspect, who was compliant during the arrest, hesitated briefly during the security screening process.

Investigation Ensues as Capitol Secures Perimeter

The Capitol Visitor Center was temporarily closed to the public to allow for a thorough investigation. "The CVC is closed for tours for the day, while we investigate. We will provide more information when we can," stated Capitol Police in a press release.

Despite the alarming nature of the items found, there was no immediate indication that the incident was related to the election. "There's no indication right now that it had anything to do with the election," Chief Manger explained, aiming to quell any public alarm.

The suspect claimed his intent was to deliver the papers to Congress, although the specifics of these documents and their contents have not yet been disclosed to the public.

Capitol Police Chief Comments on Suspect's Intentions

"Some of the suspect’s clothing smelled like gasoline, but not all of it, so it's really unknown at this point what his intention was," said Manger. This ambiguity adds to the complexity of the case as authorities strive to determine the suspect's motives.

"It's quite a bit, and we are trying to determine where, in fact, he did come from," Manager further commented on the investigation, highlighting the ongoing efforts to trace the suspect’s movements prior to his arrival at the Capitol.

The suspect's solitary actions and the absence of prior knowledge about him by the Capitol Police suggest he was acting alone. This detail is crucial as authorities assess any broader security threats.

Security Measures and Public Safety Ensured

The incident has prompted a review of security protocols, with Capitol Police ensuring that measures are adequate and responsive to potential threats. The presence of such hazardous materials at a government building has reinforced the importance of stringent security screenings.

As the investigation continues, the Capitol Police are vigilant in monitoring and assessing the situation to prevent any similar occurrences. The public is advised to stay informed through official channels for updates on the case.

Authorities continue to investigate the suspect's background, his recent activities, and any possible connections that could shed light on his intentions at the Capitol.