Overview
- Brian Cole Jr., 30, of Woodbridge, Virginia, was taken into custody on Thursday, with related searches continuing, according to multiple reports.
- Authorities charged Cole with transporting an explosive on an interstate and attempted malicious destruction using fire and explosives, with a first court appearance expected Friday.
- Sources say Cole told FBI interviewers he believed the 2020 election was stolen, offering an initial indication of possible motive.
- The two viable devices were placed the night of Jan. 5 near the national party headquarters, then rendered safe after discovery hours later with no injuries.
- The investigation spanned tens of thousands of videos, about 1,000 interviews, phone‑tower records and commercial purchase data, including a distinctive Nike sneaker line, supported by a public reward that rose to $500,000.