The U.S. Capitol witnessed heightened security on Wednesday as police arrested a man carrying a machete and three knives. The incident occurred during a solemn moment for the nation as former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away in late December at age 100, lay in state in the Capitol Rotunda.
The suspect, identified as 44-year-old Mel Horne of Washington, D.C., was apprehended around 2 p.m. ET during an X-ray screening at the Capitol Visitor Center. According to the U.S. Capitol Police (USCP), officers discovered the machete and three knives in Horne’s bag. This discovery led to an hour-long shutdown of security screenings at the north side of the visitor center.
Horne now faces multiple charges for carrying dangerous weapons. “Our officers know they cannot let their guard down for one second,” stated USCP Chief Thomas Manger.
He emphasized that consistent vigilance is essential for maintaining safety within the Capitol premises. Authorities confirmed that there is no active threat to Congress or the public, though Horne’s motives remain under investigation.
U.S. Capitol Police foil weapon-carrying suspect during state tribute to late President Carter.
Despite the arrest, public viewing of President Carter’s casket in the Rotunda continued uninterrupted.
Carter’s funeral service, scheduled for Thursday at Washington National Cathedral, will include a eulogy by President Joe Biden.
Biden returned to Washington, D.C., from Los Angeles on Wednesday, following a briefing with California Governor Gavin Newsom about the state’s devastating wildfires.
President-elect Donald Trump is also set to visit the Capitol to honor Carter and meet with Republican senators before his inauguration on January 20.
This incident underscores the critical role of U.S. Capitol Police in ensuring the safety of lawmakers, visitors, and the general public during high-profile events. As the nation prepares to bid farewell to the 39th president, security will remain a top priority.
