Capitol Police arrested Mel J. Horne, 44, on Wednesday after he attempted to pass through security at the Capitol Visitor Center with a machete and three knives in his bag.
The incident occurred just after 2 p.m. when officers spotted the weapons during an X-ray scan at the north entrance of the Visitor Center. Police immediately halted the screening process, secured the weapons, and detained Horne.
Chief J. Thomas Manger credited the quick action of his officers for maintaining the safety of the Capitol. “Their attention to detail is crucial in ensuring this campus remains secure,” he said.
Just after 2:00 p.m., our officers stopped and arrested a man who tried to get a machete into the Capitol Visitor Center (CVC).
THREAD: pic.twitter.com/7XFL4wNt6d
— The U.S. Capitol Police (@CapitolPolice) January 8, 2025
USCP Stops, Arrests Man with Machete & Knives at Security Screening: https://t.co/l3CPimfyAt pic.twitter.com/S1zRwt3vg4
— The U.S. Capitol Police (@CapitolPolice) January 8, 2025
While security screening at the north entrance was paused for about an hour, public viewing for President Jimmy Carter’s lying in state in the Capitol rotunda was not disrupted. Carter, who passed away on December 29, 2024, has drawn a large number of visitors to the Capitol to pay their respects.
The man is being arrested for multiple charges of Carrying a Dangerous Weapon.
We will provide more information once it is available.
— The U.S. Capitol Police (@CapitolPolice) January 8, 2025
Horne has been charged with multiple counts of carrying a dangerous weapon. Capitol Police confirmed there was no ongoing threat to Congress, the public, or the Capitol itself.
Picture of U.S. Capitol suspect who was caught with knives and machete. Seen practicing with swords in his front yard. pic.twitter.com/Me6y9XKJ6D
— Mr Commonsense (@fopminui) January 9, 2025
This incident comes as security has been heightened with President-elect Donald Trump expected to visit the Capitol later in the day.
