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Shots Fired at Capitol (Updated)

Spectators gather near Peace Circle on the West Front of the Capitol to view officials process the scene of an apparent suicide on the Capitol grounds. (Photo By Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call)
Spectators gather near Peace Circle on the West Front of the Capitol to view officials process the scene of an apparent suicide on the Capitol grounds. (Photo By Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call)
By Steven T. Dennis and Bridget Bowman
Posted April 11, 2015 at 2:25pm

Updated 3:58 p.m. |  Shots have been fired on the West Front of the Capitol in an apparent suicide, Capitol Police confirmed Saturday.  

Capitol Police spokesperson Lt. Kimberly A. Schneider confirmed there was a “self-inflicted gunshot by neutralized subject.” Schneider said multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Metropolitan Police Department and D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Services responded to the scene.  

According to Capitol Police sources, the individual also had a suspicious package, which was being investigated by police on the Lower West Terrace of the Capitol.  

The Capitol and the Capitol Visitor Center were put on lockdown as a precaution. Shortly after 3:30 p.m. the lockdown was lifted. Police said in a statement at 3:45 p.m. that the East Front is open to pedestrian traffic but the West Front “remains closed until further notice.”

Officials have also shut down First Street between Independence Avenue Southwest and Constitution Avenue Northwest.

The scene at the West Front of the U.S. Capitol after an apparent suicide put the building on lockdown. (Chris Hale/CQ Roll Call)
The scene at the West Front of the U.S. Capitol after an apparent suicide put the building on lockdown. (Chris Hale/CQ Roll Call)
The scene outside the West Front of the Capitol. (Chris Hale/CQ Roll Call)
The scene outside the West Front of the Capitol. (Chris Hale/CQ Roll Call)
Outside the West Front of the Capitol. (Chris Hale/CQ Roll Call)
Outside the West Front of the Capitol. (Chris Hale/CQ Roll Call)

   

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