Man with Shotgun Arrested Near US Capitol Building

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A man was taken into custody on Tuesday after approaching the U.S. Capitol Building armed with a loaded shotgun, prompting a swift response from law enforcement. The suspect, identified as 18-year-old Carter Camacho of Smyrna, Georgia, was wearing a tactical vest and carrying multiple rounds of ammunition when he ran toward the West Front of the Capitol. Capitol Police officers ordered Camacho to drop the weapon, and he complied. The incident raised security concerns just days before President Trump's scheduled State of the Union address.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the ongoing security challenges facing the U.S. Capitol and the dedication of the Capitol Police in protecting lawmakers and the democratic process. It comes as authorities work to determine the suspect's motivations and any potential connections to extremist groups or ideologies.

The details

Camacho drove a white Mercedes SUV and parked in the 100 block of Maryland Avenue, Southwest, before exiting the vehicle and running toward the Capitol. He was intercepted by Capitol Police officers who quickly apprehended him. The suspect is not believed to be from the local area and had multiple addresses listed. The vehicle itself was not registered to Camacho, further complicating the initial investigation.

• The incident occurred shortly after noon on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.
• Capitol Police had conducted an 'active shooter exercise' in the same location just months prior to the incident.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to determine the full extent of Camacho's intentions and any potential connections to extremist groups or ideologies. The incident will likely prompt a review of existing security measures to ensure the safety of the Capitol complex.