The FBI has revealed new details about the individual responsible for planting pipe bombs in Washington, D.C., on the eve of the January 6th riot, as part of an ongoing investigation that seeks to resolve this significant mystery.
On January 5, 2021, two explosive devices were placed near the headquarters of both the Republican National Committee and the Democratic National Committee. Thankfully, these devices did not detonate. In their relentless pursuit of the suspect, FBI officials have conducted over 1,000 interviews, analyzed 39,000 video files, and reviewed close to 600 tips. Despite a substantial reward of $500,000 for information leading to the capture and conviction of the suspect, the alleged bomber remains unidentified.
In a significant development, the agency has released a height estimate for the suspect, indicating they are around 5 feet 7 inches tall, along with new footage showing the person placing a bomb at the DNC.
“This case involves an unknown individual who placed two pipe bombs that could have had deadly consequences, not only near the Democratic and Republican National Committee headquarters but within a residential area,” stated David Sundberg, assistant director in charge of the FBI’s Washington Field Office. “We are committed to this investigation because explosives in neighborhoods pose an unacceptable risk to safety.”
The investigation has been complicated by the suspect’s disguise, which included a medical mask and inconspicuous attire, such as a gray hooded sweatshirt and black gloves. However, one distinctive feature is highlighted: the individual wore black and light gray Nike Air Max sneakers with a yellow logo — a limited release with only about 25,000 pairs sold by January 2021.
Authorities emphasize the necessity of identifying the individual to determine their motives and any potential connections to the events that unfolded on January 6, when Congress convened to certify the 2020 presidential election results.
“We remain convinced that there are individuals with information about this case,” Sundberg added. “Over the past four years, people’s perspectives may change, and what once seemed irrelevant could provide critical insight into our investigation.”
The FBI is urging anyone with information to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously via phone at 1-800-CALL-FBI or online at tips.fbi.gov.
Historically, major bombing investigations have taken years to resolve. For instance, Eric Rudolph remained elusive for several years following his bombing at the Atlanta Olympics in 1996, only to be apprehended in 2003. Similarly, the Unabomber, Ted Kaczynski, evaded capture for nearly two decades before identification through a family connection.
Sundberg reaffirmed the FBI’s commitment to this case, stating that the Bureau has a long memory and will continue its pursuit until justice is served.
