U.S. Capitol Police arrested a man with a gun Monday morning at the North Barricade of the Capitol Building, prompting authorities to shut down the area while officers investigated.
The arrest triggered an alert to staffers and other personnel warning them to stay away from the North Barricade until further notice.
Capitol Police said the area would remain closed as the investigation continued.
Details about the suspect, the type of firearm and what he was allegedly doing near the barricade were not immediately released.
🚨 JUST NOW: US Capitol police have just arrested a man with a FIREARM outside Congress at the North Barricade
Thank God no violence broke out 🙏🏻
Police are now trying to determine why he drove to the Capitol. pic.twitter.com/vVL7SoT6sb
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) July 13, 2026
The incident unfolded just before noon in one of the most heavily secured areas in Washington, where even routine police activity can quickly set off alarms.
Authorities said they would provide additional updates when more information becomes available.
The arrest comes as law enforcement agencies remain on high alert around federal buildings following years of security scares and threats targeting public officials.
Capitol Police have not said whether the man made any threats or whether lawmakers were believed to be in danger.
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