Man Arrested with Molotov Cocktails Aimed to Kill Treasury Secretary at Capitol, Police Say

A Massachusetts man was arrested at the U.S. Capitol on Monday with Molotov cocktails and a knife, telling police he intended to kill Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, according to court documents. Ryan Michael "Reily" English, 32, initially planned to target Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and House Speaker Mike Johnson but changed his focus after reading about Bessent's nomination in a library in Chevy Chase, Maryland.

English was arrested around 3:12 p.m. ET on Monday and charged with unlawful receipt, possession, or transfer of a firearm and carrying a firearm, explosive, or incendiary device on Capitol grounds. He was taken into custody without incident.



The incident comes just one week after another security breach at the Capitol, where a Massachusetts man was found to be carrying a gun after attending a tour of the Capitol. This latest incident has raised concerns about the security measures in place at the U.S. Capitol and the potential for copycat incidents.

In response to the incident, Capitol Police have ordered a full review of the incident and mandatory refresher training on security screening. The department has also deployed extraordinary measures, known as "extraordinary measures," to prevent the nation from hitting the debt ceiling. These measures, which involve special accounting maneuvers, are intended to keep the government operating while lawmakers and the president agree on lifting the limit on the U.S. government's ability to borrow.

The incident has also raised questions about the potential impact on the incoming Trump administration, particularly in terms of national security and public trust. The administration may face increased scrutiny and pressure to address security concerns and maintain public confidence in the government's ability to protect its officials and institutions.

As the investigation into the incident continues, it is essential for the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. The safety and security of the U.S. Capitol and its visitors are of paramount importance, and it is crucial for all stakeholders to work together to ensure that the Capitol remains a safe and secure environment for all.