Capitol Arrest After Man Runs Toward Building With Shotgun
An 18-year-old identified as Carter Camacho was arrested Tuesday after running toward the Capitol with a loaded shotgun; officers found tactical gear and a gas mask in his SUV.
Overview
U.S. Capitol Police arrested 18-year-old Carter Camacho Tuesday after he ran from a Mercedes SUV toward the Capitol’s west side holding a loaded shotgun, Chief Michael Sullivan said.
Officers found a tactical vest and gloves on the suspect and a Kevlar helmet and gas mask in his vehicle, and Chief Sullivan noted recent active-threat exercises on the West Front.
Chief Sullivan said investigators are probing the suspect’s motive, including whether members of Congress were targets, and asked the public for any video of the incident; no one was hurt, officials said.
Authorities identified the suspect as 18-year-old Carter Camacho of Smyrna, Georgia and charged him with unlawful activities, carrying a rifle without a license, an unregistered firearm and unregistered ammunition, the USCP said.
Officers searched Camacho’s SUV parked near the U.S. Botanical Garden, found tactical gear, and said the vehicle was not registered to him as investigators continue to collect evidence and review department video.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame the incident as a security/threat story by emphasizing tactical details (repeated mention of a “tactical vest,” Kevlar helmet, gas mask, and a loaded shotgun), foregrounding police statements, and linking the arrest to the imminent State of the Union and rising threat statistics—editorial choices that heighten perceived danger while police quotes provide factual content.
Sources (12)
![Armed Man Arrested While Rushing US Capitol [VIDEO] - Joe.My.God.](https://www.joemygod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/karrma.jpg)
FAQ
The suspect's motive has not been disclosed publicly. Chief Michael Sullivan stated that investigators are probing the suspect's motive, including whether members of Congress were targets, but no confirmed motive has been announced.[1] The investigation is ongoing as authorities continue to collect evidence and review department video.
The U.S. Capitol Police were able to respond effectively due to recent active-threat exercises conducted on the West Front of the Capitol, according to Chief Michael Sullivan.[1] These preparedness drills likely enhanced officers' readiness and response protocols. Additionally, the Capitol's enhanced security measures and increased officer presence facilitated a rapid response that prevented anyone from being hurt during the incident.[1]
Carter Camacho was charged with unlawful activities, carrying a rifle without a license, an unregistered firearm, and unregistered ammunition.[1] Officers found a tactical vest and gloves on the suspect, along with a Kevlar helmet and gas mask in his vehicle.[1] This tactical gear suggests the suspect may have been preparing for a prolonged confrontation, which investigators are examining as part of their probe into his intentions and whether specific targets were identified.
The article does not specify why the Mercedes SUV was not registered to the suspect, only that officers discovered this discrepancy during their investigation.[1] The fact that the vehicle was unregistered to Camacho and was parked near the U.S. Botanical Garden is part of the ongoing investigation as authorities work to establish a timeline of events and determine whether additional individuals may have been involved in planning or facilitating the incident.[1]
The incident occurred as Capitol security measures have been strengthened across multiple states, with at least 34 states using metal detectors and bag screenings at Capitol entrances.[1] The Minnesota Capitol implemented new weapons screening at four entrance locations starting with the 2026 legislative session.[1] However, this incident demonstrates that additional security measures may be needed, as the suspect was able to approach the building. Officials may now evaluate whether current protocols are adequate or if further enhancements—such as expanded perimeter security or additional screening technology—should be considered.[1]
History
8 sources