Brian Cole Jr. in Custody
Federal authorities have arrested 30-year-old Brian Cole Jr. of Woodbridge, Virginia, for allegedly planting two pipe bombs outside the Democratic and Republican National Committee headquarters on January 5, 2021. The bombs were discovered and safely deactivated before they could cause harm.
Charges and Evidence
Cole faces federal charges for using explosive devices and attempting destruction with explosives. Court documents say investigators traced him through cellphone data and banking records. The records allegedly show purchases of bomb-making materials, including wires, batteries, timers, and metal end caps.
Authorities also tracked Cole’s 2017 Nissan Sentra near the bomb locations. CCTV footage shows a person placing objects near both the DNC and RNC buildings.
Investigation Details
The case took nearly five years to solve. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi said there was no new tip; the arrest resulted from careful analysis of existing evidence. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro called the investigation “like finding a needle in a haystack.”
FBI officials emphasized that attacks on U.S. institutions will not go unpunished. Investigators praised the collaboration between federal and local law enforcement.
Background and Current Status
Cole lives with family in Woodbridge and works in a bail bond office. He is currently in FBI custody and is expected to appear in court in Washington, D.C., on Friday. Authorities have not disclosed a motive for the bombings.
Ongoing Coverage
This arrest resolves a case that included a $500,000 reward for information. DOJO will continue to provide updates as more details become available.
