Capitol Shut Down After Nearby Fire Sparks Security Alert

3 年前

A fire at a homeless encampment prompted a shutdown of the US Capitol on January 18, halting a rehearsal for President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration, according to officials and local media.

The Secret Service said a fire in the area of 1st and F streets SE had been extinguished and there was no threat to the public.

DC Fire and EMS said one person suffered a non-life-threatening injury and firefighters extinguished the blaze quickly. They said the occupant of a tent in which the blaze started said she was using propane, which may have explained reports of an explosion.

This footage by Saqib Ul Islam showing smoke billowing from the fire was filmed on the Southeast Freeway. Credit: Saqib Ul Islam via Storyful