Shocking Arrest: Man Plans Molotov Cocktail Attack on Capitol Targets, Claims Intent to Kill Top Officials
Ryan English arrested for bringing Molotov cocktails to the Capitol, targeting Speaker Johnson, Hegseth, and Bessent. He planned to attack and die by cop.
In a shocking turn of events, a Massachusetts man was arrested after allegedly bringing Molotov cocktails to the U.S. Capitol, intending to target high-ranking officials. Ryan English, 38, turned himself in to Capitol Police on Monday, admitting to carrying two Molotov cocktails made from 50-milliliter Absolut Vodka bottles, along with knives and other dangerous items. Federal authorities revealed that English had planned to assassinate House Speaker Mike Johnson, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
Court documents show that English made a disturbing confession, stating he intended to kill Bessent, who had just been confirmed as Treasury Secretary, and Hegseth, whom he referred to as a “Nazi.” His plot also involved burning down the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank. English’s journey from Massachusetts to Washington included a stop at a library in Chevy Chase, Maryland, where he learned about Bessent’s confirmation hearing, leading him to alter his focus to Bessent.
Investigators uncovered additional materials for making Molotov cocktails in English’s car, and authorities also found a troubling message in his pocket, which seemed to indicate his troubled state of mind. The message expressed regret and referenced a sense of impending death, as well as a desire to protect his loved ones from the violence he intended to commit.
English’s actions highlight the disturbing lengths some individuals are willing to go in pursuit of their extremist views. While he ultimately turned himself in, he expressed a chilling willingness to die in a confrontation with police. Since January 2024, Capitol Police have confiscated over 50 weapons from individuals trying to access the grounds illegally, underscoring the ongoing threat to national security.
This tragic and disturbing incident marks a reminder of the dangers posed by radical ideologies in the current political climate.
