FBI Seeks New Leads in Unsolved Pipe Bomb Investigation from Jan. 6 Eve
The FBI continues its search for answers regarding the pipe bombs placed outside the Democratic and Republican National Committee offices on January 5, 2021, the night before the Capitol riot. Despite four years of investigation, key questions about the suspect’s identity and motive remain unanswered.
Recently, the FBI released previously unseen surveillance footage and close-up images of the suspect, hoping to generate fresh leads. The suspect, described as approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall, was wearing a gray hooded sweatshirt, face mask, black gloves, and Nike Air Max Speed Turf shoes with a distinctive yellow logo. These shoes, considered a notable clue, were part of a limited run of fewer than 25,000 pairs sold between August 2018 and January 2021.
Surveillance footage shows the suspect placing one bomb outside the DNC office at around 7:54 p.m. and another in an alley behind the RNC office at approximately 8:16 p.m. Both bombs were discovered and rendered safe before they could cause harm. However, the FBI noted that the devices were potentially lethal.
The investigation has assessed over 600 tips, reviewed 39,000 video files, and conducted more than 1,000 interviews. Yet, basic questions remain unresolved, including the suspect’s gender and any possible links between the pipe bombs and the Capitol riot.
David Sundberg, assistant director of the FBI’s Washington field office, emphasized the need to rely on evidence rather than assumptions. “Without confirming the suspect’s identity, it is difficult to definitively establish motive or a connection to the Capitol events,” Sundberg said.
One bomb was discovered near the DNC at 1:05 p.m. on January 6, while then-Vice President-elect Kamala Harris was inside the building. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s motorcade passed the location as she was evacuated from the Capitol.
The FBI continues to offer a $500,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspect. Authorities are urging anyone who recognizes the distinctive attire or has relevant information to come forward.
Sundberg reaffirmed the FBI’s commitment to pursuing the case until a suspect is identified and brought to justice.
