Capitol locked down and Biden’s inauguration rehearsal evacuated after fire sparked security threat
THE Capitol building was locked down and Joe Biden’s inauguration rehearsal evacuated after a fire sparked a security threat.
Smoke was seen billowing from behind the US Capitol building on Monday morning.
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It was reported that President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration rehearsal was taking place at the time.
However, Biden was not at the event.
An emergency announcement was played at the political hub before people started to evacuate.
Staffers at the site received a text warning of an “external security threat.”
“All buildings within the Capitol Complex: External security threat, no entry or exit is permitted, stay away from exterior windows, doors. If outside, seem cover. USCP,” the text reportedly read, according to CBS News reporters.
Participants were ushered from the West Front of the Capitol.
Those who had gathered for a walk-through, including a military band, were directed to head indoors and moved in the direction of a secure location inside the Capitol complex.
People involved in the rehearsal said security officials yelled “this is not a drill.”
It later transpired that smoke was coming from the Navy Yard, with reports of a fire located under a bridge.
Reporters said that the blaze broke out after a propane tank exploded in a homeless encampment roughly one mile away.
Additional propane tanks have reportedly been found in the area and are being investigated by cops.
The fire was extinguished by 10.30am ET and no injuries were reported, the DC fire and EMS said.
“This accounts for smoke that many have seen,” it confirmed.
Capitol Police said in a statement confirming that there are “currently no fires on or within the Capitol campus.
“Members and staff were advised to shelter in place while the incident is being investigated.”
The lockdown on the building was lifted after the fire was extinguished.
Politicians are on high alert after Trump supporters attacked the Capitol building on January 6.
At least five people died following the incident and dozens of protesters have been arrested and charged.
Fears of an “insider attack” on Joe Biden at his inauguration on Wednesday have led to enhanced vetting of National Guard troops.
Around 25,000 National Guard members are undergoing intense FBI screening as US defense officials admitted their concerns over assassination attempts by one of those tasked with protecting Biden on the day.
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Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy said officials are conscious of the potential threat, and warned commanders to be on the lookout for any problems within their ranks as the inauguration approaches.
So far, however, he and other leaders say they have seen no evidence of any threats, and officials said the vetting hadn’t flagged any new issues.
The fears come just two days before President-elect Biden’s inauguration on where he will be sworn in as the 46th President of the United States.