Overview
- Federal authorities identified the suspect as Brian Cole Jr., 30, of Woodbridge, Va., charging him with transporting an explosive device and attempted malicious destruction by explosive materials.
- An unsealed FBI affidavit says investigators linked Cole to the devices through purchase histories, historical cell-site records consistent with his phone being near the DNC and RNC, and license-plate reader hits.
- Court filings detail purchases in 2019–2020 of items consistent with the bombs’ components, including galvanized pipe, white kitchen timers, 9‑volt battery connectors, red and black 14‑gauge wire, and steel wool.
- Officials said the investigation remains active with search warrants underway, no established motive, and no determination yet on whether the placements were coordinated with the Jan. 6 Capitol attack.
- The pipe bombs were placed on the evening of Jan. 5, 2021 and discovered the next day; the FBI has described both devices as viable, and the bureau had offered up to $500,000 during the yearslong hunt for a suspect.