US Capitol is 'all clear' after lockdown due to security threat

Visitors were asked to immediately stay away from external doors and windows

The US Capitol building and visitor center has been given the all clear after going into lockdown.

Visitors to the government buildings were asked to immediately take shelter after someone with a weapon reportedly made it past security.

They were told to close, lock and stay clear of external doors and windows, as well as silence their mobile phones.

“If you are outside of an office building, seek cover away from the area,” the memo issued shortly after 9am read.

Authorities have not yet responded to where exactly the potential threat was located.

People were barred from entering the building while a police security sweep was underway.

US Capitol Police spokeswoman Eva Malecki said in a statement before the all clear: “Out of abundance of caution, the U.S. Capitol and Capitol Visitor Center are on lockdown while USCP investigates a report of a person of interest. Building occupants are advised to shelter in place and await further USCP instructions.”

A source in the senate told Reuters the suspect was possibly a female and possibly armed in the basement of the US House office building.