Overview
- Brian Cole Jr., 30, of Woodbridge, Virginia, was taken into custody and charged with transporting an explosive device and attempted malicious destruction by means of explosives.
- An unsealed FBI affidavit ties Cole to the devices through purchase histories dating to 2019–2020, including galvanized pipe, white kitchen timers, 9‑volt connectors, electrical wire, and steel wool.
- Cell‑site records and a license‑plate reader hit reportedly placed Cole’s phone and his 2017 Nissan Sentra in the vicinity of the DNC and RNC on the evening of Jan. 5, 2021.
- Officials said the investigation is ongoing as agents execute search warrants, and they have not determined a motive or any direct operational link to the Jan. 6 Capitol attack.
- The arrest follows a nearly five‑year inquiry that reviewed tens of thousands of videos, fielded hundreds of tips, and included a $500,000 reward before a renewed evidence review produced the lead to Cole.