A suspect apprehended at the U.S. Capitol building on January 27th faces serious charges after allegedly plotting to assassinate several high-ranking government officials. The individual, identified as Ryan Michael "Reily" English, also known as "Riley Jane English," reportedly approached a Capitol Police officer and confessed to possessing Molotov cocktails and knives, stating their intention to kill Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
Court documents reveal chilling details, indicating that English had traveled from Massachusetts to Washington D.C. with the alleged aim of eliminating Bessent, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and House Speaker Mike Johnson, as well as setting fire to the Heritage Foundation. Prosecutors assert that English's actions were influenced by Luigi Mangione, who gained notoriety after being arrested for the alleged murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in December.
English, who reportedly suffers from a terminal heart condition and believes they have only months to live, allegedly expressed a desire to "do something" before their death. During a custodial interview, English displayed a concerning lack of remorse, stating, "I might as well tell you everything…because it doesn’t matter and I’m not afraid." The suspect's open admiration for Mangione and references to "fate" and "destiny" further alarmed authorities.
English is currently facing charges related to possessing firearms, dangerous weapons, and explosive devices on Capitol grounds. Upon searching the suspect, officers discovered a folding knife and Molotov cocktails in their jacket, and additional materials for making Molotov cocktails were found in their vehicle. A note found on English's person expressed remorse to a person named Judith and spoke of feeling driven to act due to perceived injustices.
Initially, English's target was reportedly Bessent, prompted by witnessing the Treasury Secretary's confirmation hearings online. The suspect allegedly purchased alcohol bottles to construct Molotov cocktails with the intent of throwing them at Bessent's feet and stabbing him if the opportunity arose. English even contemplated the possibility of having to kill Capitol Police officers to reach Bessent.
When the likelihood of reaching Bessent diminished, English allegedly expressed a willingness to engage in "suicide by cop." This incident follows a trend of increased weapons confiscations on Capitol grounds since January 2024, with over 50 illegal weapons seized by the USCP.
