Updated 10:31 a.m. | A red Nissan Altima with Florida license plates crashed into the South Barricade of the Capitol around 8:40 a.m. Friday.  

Police, D.C. Fire and EMS responded to the scene, forming a perimeter around the area and briefly closing the House side of the East Front to pedestrian traffic. The driver, who sources said appeared to be traveling at “full speed,” was taken into custody. He was alone in the car. Capitol Police identified him as Antonio Pierorazio.  

The vehicle’s front fender appeared to be smashed. Sources reported hearing the tires screech before the impact, which created a “big bang.”  

“The vehicle did NOT enter the secure perimeter,” Capitol Police spokeswoman Lt. Kimberly Schneider emphasized in a statement.  

Temporary street closures went into effect in the immediate area of New Jersey and Independence avenues Southeast.  

Police continued to investigate after the car was towed away, at around 9:35 a.m. Police activity cleared shortly after 10 a.m., and the South Barricade reopened to traffic.  

Police said Pierorazio was being processed at Capitol Police headquarters on D Street Northeast.  

Bridget Bowman contributed to this report.

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