Teenager Arrested for Rushing U.S. Capitol with Loaded Shotgun

Carter Camacho of Smyrna, Georgia, was apprehended by Capitol Police after allegedly charging the Capitol with ammunition and tactical gear.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 17-year-old from Smyrna, Georgia, named Carter Camacho, was arrested on Tuesday, February 17th, after allegedly rushing the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C. with a loaded shotgun and tactical vest. Capitol Police were able to apprehend Camacho without any injuries, and are investigating whether members of Congress were the target of his alleged attempt.

Why it matters

This incident raises serious concerns about security at the U.S. Capitol and the potential threat of violence, especially in the wake of the January 6th, 2021 attack on the Capitol. Authorities are working to determine Camacho's motives and whether he had any accomplices or affiliations with extremist groups.

The details

According to the U.S. Capitol Police, officers arrested Camacho around 12 PM local time on the Lower West Terrace of the Capitol. He was found to be in possession of a loaded shotgun, multiple rounds of ammunition, and a tactical-style vest. Camacho's SUV was also located nearby, containing a gas mask and helmet.

  • The incident occurred on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 around 12 PM local time.

The players

Carter Camacho

A 17-year-old from Smyrna, Georgia, who was arrested for allegedly rushing the U.S. Capitol with a loaded shotgun and tactical gear.

U.S. Capitol Police

The law enforcement agency responsible for securing the U.S. Capitol building, who apprehended Camacho without any injuries.

Michael Sullivan

The U.S. Capitol Police Chief, who stated that officials are investigating whether members of Congress were the target of Camacho's alleged attempt.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Just last summer, we held an active threat exercise on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol – in the very location where today's officers stopped the suspect. These now routine exercises are planned monthly and in different areas of the Capitol Complex to keep our officers ready for potential threats just like this.”

— Michael Sullivan, U.S. Capitol Police Chief (PBS News)

What’s next

The U.S. Capitol Police's Threat Assessment Section is investigating Camacho's motives and whether he had any accomplices or affiliations with extremist groups.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by the U.S. Capitol and the need for continued vigilance and preparedness to prevent potential acts of violence, especially in the wake of the January 6th, 2021 attack.