Metro Atlanta 18-year-old arrested near U.S. Capitol after running toward building with loaded shotgun
Arrest near Capitol prompts investigation into motive and security posture
An 18-year-old from the metro Atlanta area was arrested outside the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026, after officers said he ran toward the building carrying a loaded shotgun. No one was injured, and authorities said the suspect complied with commands and was taken into custody without further incident.
The arrest occurred shortly after noon on the Lower West Terrace, a secured area on the Capitol’s west side that is regularly staffed by law enforcement and frequently used by visitors. Officers intercepted the suspect before he reached the building.
What officers reported at the scene
Investigators identified the suspect as Carter Camacho, 18, of Smyrna, Georgia. Police said he arrived in a Mercedes SUV that was parked near the U.S. Botanic Garden along Maryland Avenue SW. After exiting the vehicle, he ran toward the Capitol holding a shotgun that officers later determined was loaded.
Police said Camacho was wearing tactical-style gear, including a vest and gloves, and that he had additional ammunition on him. Officers also reported finding items inside the SUV consistent with protective or tactical equipment, including a helmet and a gas mask.
- Location: Lower West Terrace area of the U.S. Capitol complex
- Time: shortly after noon, Feb. 17, 2026
- Outcome: suspect surrendered; no injuries reported
Charges filed and what remains unknown
Camacho was arrested on charges that include carrying a rifle without a license, possession of an unregistered firearm, and possession of unregistered ammunition, along with an unlawful activities charge under local or federal provisions applicable on Capitol grounds. Authorities have not publicly outlined a motive, and an investigative unit focused on threat assessment is reviewing available evidence, including video and witness information.
Officials said the suspect was not previously flagged in their internal systems. Investigators have also indicated they are working to clarify the vehicle’s ownership and the suspect’s ties to any additional addresses or jurisdictions, details that can bear on charging decisions and detention arguments in court.
Security context at the Capitol
The incident occurred while Congress was not in session, limiting the number of lawmakers present on the complex. Capitol law enforcement leadership noted that the response reflected regular training and preparedness measures, including recurring active-threat exercises conducted in different parts of the Capitol campus.
The case remains under investigation, and authorities have not announced whether the suspect intended to target specific individuals or areas of the Capitol complex.
Further proceedings are expected in federal court in Washington, D.C., where prosecutors typically address detention, initial appearance timelines, and any additional charges that may emerge as investigators complete interviews and forensic reviews.