FBI says Jan. 6 pipe bomb suspect purchased bomb parts in 2019

Published December 4, 2025 6:32pm ET



A Virginia man charged with planting pipe bombs outside the Democratic and Republican National Committee headquarters on the eve of the Jan. 6 Capitol riot had allegedly been stockpiling bomb components for more than a year before placing the bombs, even continuing to purchase parts afterwards, according to a newly unsealed FBI affidavit.

Federal agents arrested Brian Cole Jr., 30, of Woodbridge, early Thursday morning. Cole faces charges of transporting explosives across state lines with intent to kill or injure and attempted malicious destruction, with officials saying additional counts are possible.

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