Teen Arrested with Loaded Shotgun Near US Capitol in Tactical Gear Incident

An alarming incident unfolded on Tuesday when an 18-year-old man from Georgia, armed with a loaded shotgun, was intercepted by U.S. Capitol Police near the West Front of the U.S. Capitol. The swift response by law enforcement averted what could have been a dangerous situation.

According to U.S. Capitol Police Chief Michael Sullivan, the suspect, identified as Carter Camacho from Smyrna, Georgia, exited a Mercedes SUV just before noon. He proceeded to run toward the Capitol while carrying a loaded shotgun and additional ammunition.

Chief Sullivan emphasized the importance of preparedness, noting, “Just last summer, we conducted an active threat exercise on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol, precisely where today’s officers managed to stop the suspect.” He added, “These routine exercises, held monthly across different areas of the Capitol Complex, are crucial to ensuring our officers are ready for potential threats like this one.”

In a coordinated response, officers quickly intercepted Camacho, instructed him to drop his weapon, and subsequently took him into custody, as reported by Sullivan.

The U.S. Capitol Police confirmed that a single individual was apprehended on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, outside the U.S. Capitol Building, highlighting the ongoing vigilance required to maintain security at such a pivotal location.

He was wearing a tactical vest, tactical gloves and had a Kevlar helmet and gas mask in the SUV, according to Sullivan. He also had multiple rounds of ammunition, authorities said. 

Images taken at the scene showed authorities surrounding a vehicle. Camacho’s motive remains unknown.

He was arrested on suspicion of unlawful activities, carrying a rifle without a license, unregistered firearm, and unregistered ammunition. 

Police identify Carter Camacho of Smyrna, GA as armed person arrested earlier at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.  (USCP)

“I want to commend the officers for the brave service that they provided here today,” Sullivan said during a news conference. “Who knows what could have happened if we didn’t have officers here standing guard like they do every single day.”

Police identify Carter Camacho of Smyrna, GA as armed person arrested earlier at US Capitol in Washington, DC on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.  (USCP)

Sullivan added just a few months ago, Capitol Police had an active shooter exercise on the West Front, virtually in the same spot as Tuesday’s incident.

“We do those active shooter exercises every single month, and that’s why we do it,” he said.

The area was later cleared and reopened. Police said there did not appear to be any other suspects or an ongoing threat.