What we know about suspected pipe bomber on eve of 2021 US Capitol riot

December 5, 2025

Brian Cole Jr. , a 30-year-old man from Woodbridge, Virginia, was arrested and charged with planting two unexploded pipe bombs outside the Democratic and Republican National Committee headquarters on January 5, 2021, the day before the Capitol riot. Neighbors and relatives characterized him as a quiet, naive person who worked for his father's bail bond company and regularly walked his chihuahua around their suburban community.

Who is affected

Brian Cole Jr. (arrested suspect)
Kamala Harris (evacuated from DNC headquarters when bombs were discovered)
Brian Cole Jr.'s mother and family members in Woodbridge, Virginia
Neighbors in the Woodbridge community
Brian Cole Sr. and employees at Brian Cole Bail Bonds (father's business raided by FBI)
Democratic National Committee and Republican National Committee organizations

What action is being taken

Mr. Cole is being held in custody
Federal prosecutors are pursuing charges including attempted malicious destruction with explosive materials and transporting an explosive device across state lines with unlawful intent
Attorney John Shoreman is representing Mr. Cole in court

Why it matters

This case resolves a nearly five-year investigation into a significant domestic terrorism incident that occurred during one of the most consequential moments in American democracy—the certification of presidential election results. The placement of explosive devices at both major political party headquarters on the eve of the Capitol riot represented a direct threat to democratic institutions and national security, requiring the evacuation of the vice president-elect. The extensive investigative effort demonstrates law enforcement's commitment to solving high-profile cases involving threats to government officials and facilities, even when years of painstaking work is required.

What's next

A detention hearing is scheduled for December 15
Mr. Cole will remain in custody until that hearing

Read full article from source: BBC