U.S. Capitol Police say the man was stopped Tuesday during a security screening at the Capitol Visitor Center. Authorities say he smelled of fuel and was carrying the flare gun and torch.

Officials have canceled public tours of the Capitol for the remainder of the day.

The arrest comes as authorities are on heightened alert for security issues around the nation’s capital and have increased patrols in areas downtown and near the White House around Election Day. Nearly four years ago, a mob of Donald Trump’s supporters attacked the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

The arrest comes as authorities are on heightened alert for security issues around the nation’s capital and have increased patrols in areas downtown and near the White House around Election Day.{ai:summary}<p>A man was arrested at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center after being found with a flare gun and torch, and smelling of fuel. Public tours have been canceled for the day as authorities investigate. Security has been heightened in the area ahead of Election Day.</p><p>This incident follows increased vigilance in Washington, D.C., particularly after the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. #politics</p>

Police arrest man trying to enter US Capitol with torch, flare gun

Loading...