Discover Top American-Made Products!
Support local craftsmanship with these high-quality, American-made items—shop now on Amazon!
Shop NowWednesday afternoon in the federal district was a chaotic one, as U.S. Capitol Police quickly responded to potential security concerns at the Russell Senate Office Building, leading to a lockdown and evacuation due to reports of a possible active shooter.
Even though there was yet to be any confirmation of an active shooter, Capitol Police officers investigated the area thoroughly.
Our officers are searching in and around the Senate Office Buildings in response to a concerning 911 call. Please stay away from the area as we are still investigating. We will continue to communicate with the public here. pic.twitter.com/vqCY0I7u8m
— The U.S. Capitol Police (@CapitolPolice) August 2, 2023
As news spread of this concerning situation, the public was urged to stay away from the area while authorities conducted their investigation.
Fox News reporter Adam Sabes believed that this was more likely a “mental health” crisis than an active shooter situation.
However, it still warranted immediate action in order for everyone involved to remain safe.
During this time, even though most lawmakers were away on recess, some staff members were present at their offices on Capitol Hill.
However, with lower occupancy rates than usual during August recess there weren’t too many people around when all of this occurred.
DC Fire and EMS tell me that the situation at Russell Senate Office Building is likely a "mental health" situation and not an active shooter.
— Adam Sabes (@asabes10) August 2, 2023
The security posture throughout this incident remained vigilant as video captured by onlookers depicted chaotic scenes throughout the Russell building’s evacuation process.
The police continued to actively communicate updates so that the public could stay informed about what is going on in their community while they work hard towards finding out exactly what happened and why.
NEWS — Hill staff just got this email from Capitol Police. pic.twitter.com/6Vlp8kI5Ts
— Jake Sherman (@JakeSherman) August 2, 2023