Authorities put buildings in the U.S. Capitol complex on lockdown Monday afternoon after a man drew a weapon while trying to get into the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center, according to police. Here's what we know:
Suspect, bystander injured
At a news conference Monday, police confirmed the man suspected of attempting to get into the Visitor Center while armed was shot by at least one police officer. He was taken to a local hospital, where he was in surgery Monday afternoon.
Police continue to investigate whether multiple officers fired shots at the man.
Capitol Police Chief Matthew Verderosa confirmed a bystander was injured in the shooting. Police did not identify the bystander but said it was a woman between 35 and 45 years old. Her injuries appeared to be minor.
Despite initial reports, no Capitol Police officers were injured.
Man drew weapon in screening area, authorities say
The man drew what appeared to be a weapon during a screening to get into the Visitor Center, police said. Authorities did not elaborate on what kind of weapon he was accused of drawing.
However, Verderosa confirmed a weapon was recovered from the scene.
Accused shooter known to police
Police declined to identify the accused shooter, although Verderosa said investigators believe he is known to local law enforcement.
“I have not received confirmation of who the suspect is, but we believe the suspect is known to us from previous contact,” Verderosa said. “I really don't want to give you bad information, I would rather just give the information as we confirm it.”
Police did not immediately charge the man and it was unclear what charges he could face.
Incident 'act of a single person,' police say
Investigators do not believe Monday's incident was anything more than a lone act.
Verderosa said it appeared to be the “act of a single person who has frequented the Capitol grounds before and there is no reason to believe this is anything more than a criminal act.”
Capitol expected to return to 'business as usual' on Tuesday
Buildings in the Capitol were placed on lockdown at 2:45 p.m. Monday. The lockdown was lifted an hour later on all buildings but the visitor center, which remained closed as investigators combed the crime scene.
Authorities expect the visitor center to reopen Tuesday.
“I want to assure the American and visiting public that the U.S. Capitol police officers continue to protect the Capitol and the CVC for all who visit,” Verderosa said. “We expect regular order of business tomorrow morning at the Capitol Visitor Center, so people can safely visit the United State Capitol and member offices."
