FBI seeks public help to identify pipe bomb suspect from January 2021 Capitol riot, offering a $500,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.
At a Glance
- FBI releases new video footage of suspect planting pipe bombs near DNC and RNC offices
- Suspect remains unidentified despite extensive investigation
- $500,000 reward offered for information leading to arrest and conviction
- Incident occurred on eve of January 6 Capitol riot
FBI Intensifies Search for Pipe Bomb Suspect
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has ramped up efforts to identify a suspect involved in planting pipe bombs near the Democratic and Republican National Committee offices on January 5, 2021. Despite clear video footage capturing the suspect in a grey hoodie and Nike sneakers, their identity remains unknown. The FBI has now turned to the public for assistance, releasing new video and offering a substantial reward.
David Sundberg, assistant director in charge of the FBI’s Washington field office, emphasized the importance of public cooperation. “We’re hoping that somebody might recognize that,” Sundberg stated, referring to the suspect’s distinctive attire.
You can also help the #FBI identify the person who placed pipe bombs near the offices of the Democratic and Republican national committees on January 5, 2021. If you recognize the suspect, submit a tip at https://t.co/iL7sD5efWD. Tips can remain anonymous. @FBIWFO pic.twitter.com/QEpGYaLKFX
— FBI (@FBI) January 6, 2022
Investigation Details and Challenges
The suspect, estimated to be around 5-foot-7-inches tall with an indeterminate gender, was captured on video placing devices that posed a significant threat. The FBI has conducted an extensive investigation, reviewing over 39,000 video files and conducting more than 1,000 interviews. Despite these efforts, the suspect’s identity remains elusive.
“Without being able to confirm the suspect’s identity, it is very hard to definitively establish motive,” Sundberg told The Associated Press.
One challenge investigators face is the suspect’s concealed appearance. Sundberg noted, “At the time this happened, it was January, during the pandemic, so not only was the suspect wearing a hood and gloves and a mask, but that was absolutely normal then, because of the pandemic and the type of weather we have in January.”
Congressional Concerns and Criticism
The prolonged investigation has drawn criticism from Congressional Republicans. A report released by the House Administration and Judiciary committees highlighted “little meaningful progress” in the investigation and a lack of updates from federal law enforcement to Congress. The report claims that Americans are “less secure” due to the FBI’s failure to identify the person responsible for placing the pipe bombs.
“Over the past four years, a dedicated team of FBI agents, analysts, data scientists, and law enforcement partners has visited more than 1,200 residences and businesses, conducted more than 1,000 interviews, reviewed approximately 39,000 video files, and assessed more than 600 tips about who may have placed pipe bombs on Capitol Hill in January 2021” Sundberg stated.
The FBI continues to urge the public to “take a fresh look at the Seeking Information webpage and contact the FBI if they recognize or have information about the suspect.” With a $500,000 reward on offer, authorities hope that new information will emerge to help solve this critical case and ensure public safety.
