FBI releases new footage of unidentified suspect who planted pipe bombs near DNC and RNC offices on January 5, 2021, offering a $500,000 reward for information leading to arrest.
At a Glance
- FBI releases new video of suspect planting pipe bombs near DNC and RNC offices
- Suspect remains unidentified after four years, despite extensive investigation
- $500,000 reward offered for tips leading to arrest and conviction
- Incident occurred on eve of January 6 Capitol riot, but link not established
- FBI urges public to come forward with any information about the suspect
FBI Releases New Footage in Ongoing Investigation
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has released new video footage of a suspect who planted pipe bombs outside the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and Republican National Committee (RNC) offices in Washington, D.C., on January 5, 2021. The suspect, who remains unidentified after four years, is seen wearing a distinctive grey hoodie and Nike Air Max Speed Turf shoes in the footage.
David Sundberg, assistant director in charge of the FBI’s Washington field office, emphasized the importance of the suspect’s attire in identifying them, specifically the sneakers. “Based on attire, those are probably the most remarkable or distinctive feature when it comes to clothing the suspect wore,” Sundberg stated. “We’re hoping that somebody might recognize that.”
You can also help the #FBI identify the person who placed pipe bombs near the offices of the Democratic and Republican national committees on January 5, 2021. If you recognize the suspect, submit a tip at https://t.co/iL7sD5efWD. Tips can remain anonymous. @FBIWFO pic.twitter.com/QEpGYaLKFX
— FBI (@FBI) January 6, 2022
Extensive Investigation Yields Few Results
Despite an extensive investigation, the FBI has been unable to identify the suspect. The bureau has reviewed over 600 tips, 39,000 video files, and conducted more than 1,000 interviews. The suspect is described as approximately 5-foot, 7-inches tall, with their gender unknown. They were last seen walking past D.C. houses with a backpack believed to have transported the bombs.
“Over the past four years, a dedicated team of FBI agents, analysts, data scientists, and law enforcement partners has visited more than 1,200 residences and businesses, conducted more than 1,000 interviews, reviewed approximately 39,000 video files, and assessed more than 600 tips about who may have placed pipe bombs on Capitol Hill in January 2021,” Sundberg reported.
Congressional Criticism and Public Appeal
Congressional Republicans have criticized the FBI for the lack of progress in identifying the suspect. A report by Representatives Barry Loudermilk and Thomas Massie highlights “little meaningful progress” in the investigation and a lack of updates from federal law enforcement to Congress. The report also emphasizes the potential catastrophic impact of the bombs, which could have caused serious injury or death.
The FBI is now turning to the public for help, offering a $500,000 reward for tips leading to an arrest and conviction. Sundberg urged citizens to “take a fresh look at the Seeking Information webpage and contact the FBI if they recognize or have information about the suspect.”
As the investigation continues, the FBI remains committed to identifying the individual responsible for this potentially deadly act. The public’s assistance could be crucial in solving this high-stakes case and bringing the perpetrator to justice.
