Armed Intrusion Thwarted at U.S. Capitol

An 18-year-old man was arrested near the U.S. Capitol after approaching with a loaded shotgun. Wearing tactical gear, his motives remain unclear. The incident occurred ahead of President Trump's State of the Union address, prompting heightened security measures by Capitol police.

An 18-year-old man approached the U.S. Capitol armed with a loaded shotgun on Tuesday. The young individual, wearing tactical gear including a vest and gloves, was taken into custody without incident, according to U.S. Capitol Police Chief Michael Sullivan. The man's motive remains unknown.

The suspect, who arrived in a white Mercedes SUV, parked close to the Capitol before running towards the building with the firearm. Capitol Police intervened, commanding him to relinquish the weapon, which he did, as Chief Sullivan recounted to the press.

This alarming occurrence unfolded just weeks before President Donald Trump's upcoming State of the Union address, intensifying security concerns. Following a previous attack near the White House that resulted in the death of a National Guard member, Capitol Police emphasize their readiness to protect the event.

(With inputs from agencies.)