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Gunman Arrested Near Capitol; Congress Not in Session

2/17/2026

46 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

On February 17, 2026, a man approached the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C., with a shotgun and was arrested by U.S. Capitol Police after dropping the weapon and complying with commands.
Capitol Police had previously advised the public to avoid the area due to the presence of a person with a firearm.
At the time of the arrest, Congress was not in session.

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Story summary

On February 17, 2026, a man approached the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C., with a shotgun and was arrested by U.S. Capitol Police after dropping the weapon and complying with commands.
Capitol Police had previously advised the public to avoid the area due to the presence of a person with a firearm.
At the time of the arrest, Congress was not in session.