US Capitol on lockdown and inauguration rehearsal evacuated after fire causes security alert
Staffers attending President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration rehearsals evacuated to Capitol visitor center amid reports of nearby fire
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A fire near the US Capitol building prompted a swift lockdown on Monday morning during rehearsals for Inauguration Day ceremonies, as lawmakers and staff were told to stay away from windows and “seek cover” if outside.
Staffers attending a rehearsal for the inaugural ceremonies were evacuated from the area and rushed into the US Capitol visitor centre after the lockdown was announced via intercom. Officials later said the fire was not believed to be a threat to the inaugural rehearsal.
A message sent out to offices within the Capitol read: "All buildings within the Capitol Complex: Due to an external security threat located under the bridge on I-295 at First and F Streets SE, no entry or exit is permitted at this time."
The evacuation comes just days after a deadly pro-Trump mob stormed the Capitol on 6 January during the certification of the 2020 elections, following a speech delivered by President Donald Trump in which he promoted false conspiracy theories of rampant voter fraud and urged his supporters to march to the building.
The clash left at least five people dead, including United States Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick, and delayed the certification of the vote by several hours. The riots were ultimately unsuccessful in their goal of preventing the certification of Mr Trump’s electoral defeat.
Reports of smoke rising from behind the Capitol building on Monday appeared to come from a nearby fire in the 100 block of H St SE.
The DC fire department said in a statement there were no injuries in the incident, adding: “This accounts for smoke that many have seen.”
Fire department officials later said the fire involved “a homeless tent” beneath the freeway, in which an occupant had been using propane. One person was injured in the fire.
Security throughout the nation’s capital has been intense following the deadly pro-Trump mob, and ahead of the inaugural ceremonies this week.
While President-elect Joe Biden still plans to be sworn in on the footsteps of the Capitol, his inauguration will be a mostly virtual spectacle, with a “Parade Across America” that will begin with Mr Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris heading to the White House in a presidential escort.
The lockdown was lifted shortly after the discovery of the cause for the fire and normal operations were resumed at the Capitol within the hour.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments