Capitol Hill police officer William Evans was killed after a vehicle tried to ram a barricade near the U.S. Capitol. A second officer was also struck and is in the hospital. The incident unfolded early Friday afternoon as a man tried to ram his car through a barricade outside of the U.S. Capitol.
Statement on the Loss of USCP Colleague Officer William "Billy" Evans: https://t.co/JMAEbTcbAp pic.twitter.com/DPvkAv5ptO
— The U.S. Capitol Police (@CapitolPolice) April 2, 2021
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi released a statement that read, in part:
“Today, America’s heart has been broken by the tragic and heroic death of one of our Capitol Police heroes: Officer William Evans. He is a martyr for our democracy.
Today, once again, these heroes risked their lives to protect our Capitol and our Country, with the same extraordinary selflessness and spirit of service seen on January 6. On behalf of the entire House, we are profoundly grateful.
Congress stands ready to assist law enforcement with a swift and comprehensive investigation into this heinous attack.
“May we always remember the heroism of those who have given their lives to defend our Democracy. May it be a comfort to the family of Officer Evans that so many mourn with them and pray for them at this sad time.”
The incident caused quite a scare at the Capitol as people flashed back to January 6th. An announcement was made over the loudspeakers inside the complex’s buildings warning people to stay away from exterior windows and doors. The Washington Post reports:
On Friday, all buildings on the U.S. Capitol complex were put on lockdown. Officials said Attorney General Merrick Garland has been briefed on the incident and is monitoring the investigation.
A motorist rammed a vehicle into U.S. Capitol Police officers, killing one and injuring another, officials said. The suspect was killed after he got out of the car and lunged at officers with a knife. Read more: https://t.co/fnVoU0bKUS 📷 Michael Weekes pic.twitter.com/Nm0rlVhMBY
— Reuters Pictures (@reuterspictures) April 2, 2021
A tragic day. The @CapitolPolice are in my prayers, yet again, as is the family of the fallen officer. https://t.co/s2WX9YfFrk
— Adam Kinzinger (Slava Ukraini) 🇺🇸🇺🇦🇮🇱 (@AdamKinzinger) April 2, 2021
Just about 10 days ago the razor wire fence that had been erected around the Capitol after the January 6th siege came down. USA Today reported:
Capitol Police said Wednesday that local streets blocked by the network of barriers also had been re-opened to traffic, though authorities said they are prepared to “quickly ramp up security at a moment’s notice, if needed.”
President Biden statement on vehicle attack at US Capitol:
"Jill and I were heartbroken to learn of the violent attack at a security checkpoint on the U.S. Capitol grounds … We send our heartfelt condolences to Officer Evans’ family, and everyone grieving his loss." pic.twitter.com/jWUcOypM9z
— NBC News (@NBCNews) April 2, 2021