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U.S. Capitol Police officer dies in checkpoint incident

One U.S. Capitol Police officer is dead and one is injured after a vehicle rammed into a barrier at a checkpoint at the U.S. Capitol complex in Washington, D.C., today. The suspected driver has also died, authorities reported.

One U.S. Capitol Police officer is dead and one is injured after a vehicle rammed into a barrier at a checkpoint at the U.S. Capitol complex in Washington, D.C., today. The suspected driver has also died, authorities reported.

Just after 1 p.m., a driver in a blue sedan crashed into the North Barricade of the complex and struck the two officers. The suspect reportedly exited the vehicle, refused to heed verbal commands, and ran toward the officers carrying a knife. One of the officers shot the man. All three were taken to the hospital.

U.S. Capitol Police later said the deceased officer was William 'Billy' Evans, an 18-year veteran of the Capitol Police force.

Acting Capitol Police Chief Yogananda Pittman addressed the public at a press conference.

"This has been an extremely difficult time for U.S. Capitol Police after the events of Jan. 6, and now after the events that have occurred here today," she said. "So I ask that you keep our U.S. Capitol Police family in your thoughts and prayers."

Multiple media outlets have identified the suspect as Noah Green, 25, of Virginia. The police believe he acted alone and there is no threat to the general public. The motive remains unconfirmed and the investigation is ongoing.

There were no details about the injured officer.

The incident sent the U.S. Capitol complex into lockdown. Capitol Police tweeted just after 3 p.m. that it had cleared the "external security incident" at all U.S. Capitol campus buildings, but the area around the scene would remain restricted.

— Gareth Henderson

Editor’s Note: This is a developing story and will be updated.

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