FBI Renews $500,000 Reward, Releases Enhanced Video in 2021 Pipe Bomb Investigation

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has released new, higher-quality video footage of the suspect responsible for placing pipe bombs at the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and Republican National Committee (RNC) headquarters on January 5, 2021. This development comes as the agency renews its standing reward of $500,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of the individual. The devices were planted the night before the January 6 Capitol riot, causing widespread concern and a significant law enforcement response.

The enhanced video provides a clearer timeline of the suspect's movements through Washington, D.C.'s Capitol Hill neighborhood between 7:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. EST. Footage shows the individual, described as approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall, wearing a gray hooded sweatshirt, black gloves, and distinctive black and gray Nike Air Max Speed Turf shoes with a yellow logo. The suspect carried the explosive devices in a backpack, placing the first bomb at the DNC at approximately 7:54 p.m. and the second at the RNC around 8:16 p.m.

Authorities confirmed that the pipe bombs were viable and "could have seriously injured or killed innocent bystanders," though neither device detonated. At the time of the discovery, then-Vice President-elect Kamala Harris was inside the DNC building, and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi also passed by the DNC device before it was found. The FBI has stated the devices were constructed from threaded galvanized pipes, a kitchen timer, and homemade black powder.

The investigation has been extensive, with the FBI conducting over 800 interviews, collecting more than 23,000 video files, and assessing hundreds of tips. Despite these efforts, the suspect remains at large nearly four years after the incident. The renewed call for public assistance emphasizes the ongoing commitment to solving the case.

Officials urge anyone with information regarding the suspect or the incident to contact the FBI directly. The $500,000 reward underscores the gravity of the attempted attack and the agency's determination to bring the perpetrator to justice. The FBI continues to analyze all available evidence, including the newly released video, in hopes of generating new leads.