On Wednesday afternoon, U.S. Capitol Police responded swiftly to reports of a possible active shooter at the Russell Senate Office Building in Washington D.C., leading to an evacuation and lockdown of the area immediately afterwards.
Our officers are searching in and around the Senate Office Buildings in response to a concerning 911 call. Please stay away from the area as we are still investigating. We will continue to communicate with the public here. pic.twitter.com/vqCY0I7u8m
— The U.S. Capitol Police (@CapitolPolice) August 2, 2023
While these reports have not been verified as of yet, the police are conducting searches throughout the area in order to ensure public safety is maintained during this time.
At around 3 PM ET, a concerning 911 call prompted an urgent response from Capitol Police officers who have since been actively communicating updates with respect to this situation in order to keep citizens informed about what is happening on the ground.
NEWS — Hill staff just got this email from Capitol Police. pic.twitter.com/6Vlp8kI5Ts
— Jake Sherman (@JakeSherman) August 2, 2023
While it appears that this scenario is more likely associated with a “mental health” crisis rather than an active shooter situation (as reported by Fox News reporter Adam Sabes), further investigations are being conducted by authorities for added security measures.
Video captured by onlookers within the vicinity depict chaotic scenes as police forces continue searching through and securing the area.
This has led many individuals within and outside Washington D.C. to praise their quick actions taken in averting any potential danger that may have ensued.
It remains unclear whether or not anyone was hurt during all this commotion or if there were any suspicious items found thus far throughout their investigations inside or outside of the building itself.
