Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Intruder Damages Washington State Capitol Reception Room in Late-Night Break-In

State leaders began repairs alongside a security review to keep government operations on track.

Overview

  • Gunnar McLean Schubert, 29, was arrested within minutes and booked into Thurston County Jail on suspicion of first-degree arson, first-degree burglary and first-degree malicious mischief.
  • Troopers arrived about 30 seconds after he was spotted on the campus, and the rampage lasted roughly 10 minutes before he was detained as he exited the building.
  • Authorities say he entered through a ground-floor window carrying two hammers, toppled busts of George Washington and Martin Luther King Jr., and set flags and a rug on fire in the State Reception Room.
  • No injuries were reported, and legislative leaders said the people’s work will continue as damage assessments proceed.
  • Investigators do not suspect a political motive and describe a mental-health crisis, and officials say damage estimates and Capitol security reviews are underway as he remains in custody with bail denied.