The Federal Bureau of Investigation has made an arrest in its years-long investigation into the placement of pipe bombs in Washington on the eve of the January 6 Capitol riot. The suspect, a man, was taken into custody in Virginia, marking the first breakthrough in a case that has puzzled law enforcement and fueled widespread speculation since 2021. The devices were found near the offices of the Democratic and Republican national committees and, though no one was injured, authorities said they could have been deadly.

For years, investigators struggled to identify the perpetrator, reviewing thousands of video files and following hundreds of tips, while the public and lawmakers debated possible motives and connections to the Capitol siege. The case became a focal point for conspiracy theories and criticism of law enforcement's response. Recently, the bureau intensified its efforts, bringing in new personnel and increasing resources to solve the mystery. Details about the suspect and potential charges have not yet been released.