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Virginia Man Charged with Planting Pipe Bombs Near Capitol

1/7/2026

29 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Brian Cole Jr., a Virginia man, is charged with planting two pipe bombs near the Capitol before January 6, 2021.
He will remain jailed until trial.
Federal Magistrate Judge Matthew J. Sharbaugh cited "substantial red flags" about his danger, noting bomb-making materials in his car and home.
Evidence showed the bombs did not explode and diverted law enforcement resources during the Capitol breach.

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Story summary

Brian Cole Jr., a Virginia man, is charged with planting two pipe bombs near the Capitol before January 6, 2021.
He will remain jailed until trial.
Federal Magistrate Judge Matthew J. Sharbaugh cited "substantial red flags" about his danger, noting bomb-making materials in his car and home.
Evidence showed the bombs did not explode and diverted law enforcement resources during the Capitol breach.