Georgia Man Arrested for Carrying Shotgun onto US Capitol Grounds

Authorities say the 18-year-old told police he wanted to "talk to a Member of Congress"

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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An 18-year-old Georgia man named Carter Camacho was arrested on the grounds of the US Capitol in Washington, DC while carrying a loaded shotgun and additional ammunition. Camacho told police he was there to "talk to a Member of Congress", though he did not specify which lawmaker. He was wearing body armor and camouflage clothing at the time of his arrest.

Why it matters

This incident raises concerns about security at the US Capitol and the potential for violence, especially after the January 6th, 2021 attack on the Capitol building. It also highlights the challenges authorities face in determining the intentions of individuals who attempt to access government buildings while armed.

The details

According to court documents, Camacho parked a Mercedes SUV near the Capitol, exited the vehicle, and ran toward the building carrying a loaded Mossberg 12-gauge shotgun with an additional 17 rounds of ammunition. The shotgun was loaded with 7 rounds and the safety was off. Camacho was also wearing body armor and camouflage-style clothing. When a US Capitol Police officer confronted him and asked what he was carrying, Camacho raised his right arm and clutched the shotgun. He complied with orders to halt and get on the ground, and told the officers he was there to "talk to a Member of Congress".

  • On February 19, 2026, Camacho was arrested on the grounds of the US Capitol.

The players

Carter Camacho

An 18-year-old man from Smyrna, Georgia who was arrested for unlawfully carrying a loaded shotgun onto the grounds of the US Capitol building.

US Capitol Police

The law enforcement agency responsible for protecting the US Capitol building and grounds, who arrested Camacho.

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What they’re saying

“He also told USCP officers he was just there to talk to a Member of Congress.”

— Carter Camacho (Court documents)

What’s next

Camacho's next court date is scheduled for March 2, 2026, where a judge will determine whether he should be held without bond.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges at the US Capitol and the need for vigilance in protecting government buildings from potential threats, especially in the aftermath of the January 6th, 2021 attack. It also raises questions about the mental health and motivations of individuals who attempt to access government facilities while armed.