A Woodbridge resident has been arrested and charged after federal investigators linked him to two functional pipe bombs left outside the national headquarters of the Democratic and Republican parties in Washington, D.C., last month.
The FBI announced the arrest of Brian Cole, 30, on Thursday morning after a month-long investigation that combined forensic testing, digital evidence, and physical surveillance. Agents say components matching the materials used in the bombs were recovered from a trash bin near Cole’s home.
The devices were found in the early hours, outside the Democratic National Committee building on South Capitol Street and the Republican National Committee headquarters on First Street. Both areas were quickly secured, and bomb technicians safely disabled the devices before they could detonate.
According to a criminal complaint unsealed Thursday, Cole admitted during an interview with investigators that he constructed and placed the devices. Officials say he told agents he believed in multiple conspiracy theories and claimed the 2020 presidential election had been “stolen.” He reportedly expressed frustration with both major political parties, which he viewed as corrupt, and said he wanted to “wake people up” through his actions.
Federal prosecutors emphasized that while the bombs were functional, there is currently no indication that Cole was working with others or that any additional threats are outstanding.
Cole now faces several federal charges, including manufacturing and possessing a destructive device and transporting an explosive with intent to cause injury. If convicted on the most serious charge, he could receive up to 20 years in federal prison. Authorities noted that the charges remain allegations, and Cole is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
The Department of Justice also released a photo of the suspect as the investigation continues, urging the public to report any additional information that may assist the case.
