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20 Years Ago, a Deadly Shooting in the Capitol Changed Life on the Hill Forever

By Thomas McKinless

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On July 24, 1998, a schizophrenic man with a gun walked into the U.S. Capitol. The ensuing rampage resulted in the deaths of two Capitol police officers, Detective John M. Gibson and Officer Jacob J. Chestnut, who saved the lives of Majority Whip Tom DeLay, his staff and countless others. The incident changed the Capitol community forever, boosting momentum for construction of the Capitol Visitors Center and much of the security we experience today. Roll Call looked back at that tragic day, speaking to lawmakers, law enforcement and journalists who covered the story.

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