Brian J. Cole, Jr., a 30-year-old resident of Woodbridge, Virginia, was arrested and charged with transporting and planting two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) outside the headquarters of the Republican National Committee (RNC) and Democratic National Committee (DNC) in Washington, D.C. on January 5, 2021. The charges include transporting an explosive device in interstate commerce with intent to kill or intimidate individuals or damage property, as well as attempted malicious destruction using fire and explosives.
The arrest was announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro, who stated: “The well-being of our society rests on our ability as law enforcement to safeguard our citizens. When bad actors intervene to disrupt and threat that peace – to destroy the very fabric of our country – we must, we do, and we will track them down and hold them to account for their crimes to the full extent of the law. FBI and members of my office worked around the clock to methodically piece together the clues that ultimately identified the defendant.”
Other officials joined in announcing the arrest: U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi said, “Today’s arrest was the result of good, diligent police work and collaboration on a case that languished for four years under the prior administration. The American people are safer thanks to this morning’s successful operation.” FBI Director Kash Patel commented: “The investigation into the pipe bombs in Washington, D.C. has been a high priority since Deputy Director Bongino and I assumed our roles nine months ago. Since that time, our FBI teams have gone back over every fact and every data point looking for new leads – and today’s arrest is the result of that outstanding work. Although almost five years have passed, this shows the FBI will never rest in bringing justice to those who endanger American lives and our communities. I would like to thank our Washington Field Office, FBI personnel across the country, and our partners for their hard work and dedication which led to this arrest.”
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino added: “This historic arrest shows this FBI delivers on its promises to protect the American people. The pipe bombs could have caused devastating loss of life and injuries, as well as property damage. I want to thank the FBI employees who worked on this over the years, our law enforcement partners who assisted in the investigation, and the American people for the tips they shared with us.” Darren B. Cox, Assistant Director in Charge at FBI’s Washington Field Office stated: “Today’s actions underscore the long memory and reach of the FBI… For nearly five years, the investigative team combed through a massive amount of data and leads to identify the suspect arrested today.”
According to court documents, Cole purchased components used for making IEDs at several northern Virginia retailers during 2019-2020.
On January 6, 2021—one day after authorities believe Cole planted both devices—law enforcement agencies responded first near RNC headquarters at approximately 1 p.m., then near DNC headquarters at about 1:15 p.m., following reports about suspected explosive devices found close by each location.
Both devices were neutralized by specialists from United States Capitol Police’s Hazardous Devices Section; subsequent assessment confirmed they contained a main charge along with fuzing systems inside containers.
Surveillance footage showed one person placing both devices on January 5 while wearing dark clothing including a grey hooded sweatshirt; additional evidence included video showing eyeglasses adjustments as well as carrying a backpack.
Investigators traced Cole’s Nissan Sentra passing a license plate reader near South Capitol Street exit off I-395 South less than half a mile from where surveillance first captured someone walking near North Carolina & New Jersey Avenues SE—the area where both bomb placements occurred.
Cell phone records further linked Cole’s presence via communications between his phone and local towers near RNC/DNC between roughly 7:39 p.m.–8:24 p.m.; analysts determined these signals matched paths taken by an individual seen placing devices according to security camera reviews.
The case involves multiple agencies including the FBI Washington Field Office, U.S. Capitol Police, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms & Explosives (ATF), Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), alongside prosecution led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for DC.
