Pipe Bombs: Purchases & Surveillance Footage
Authorities say surveillance video captured the suspect walking near the DNC headquarters on January 5, 2021, and images released by the FBI show a striking resemblance between Cole and the person seen planting the pipe bombs.
Investigators also revealed that Cole purchased multiple items in 2019 and 2020 consistent with components used to build the devices placed near the RNC and DNC buildings.
The FBI determined the recovered explosives were:
“Viable devices that could have been detonated, resulting in serious injury or death.”
More coverage of the suspect’s background can be found here.
Political Reactions & Investigative Methods
FBI Director Kash Patel issued a sharp critique of the federal government’s handling of the investigation, posting on X:
“This is a case that should’ve been solved by the previous administration… When you let good cops be cops, this is what happens.”
Patel added that investigators relied heavily on cellphone geolocation data to trace Cole’s movements.
Brian Cole Jr What Next?
Cole faces federal charges including:
- Transporting an explosive device in interstate commerce
- Maliciously attempting to destroy property using explosive materials
If convicted, he could face significant prison time.
