Assassination threat put Washington, D.C. on total lockdown
Americans are sick of political violence. But it isn’t going away anytime soon.
Because now this assassination threat put Washington, D.C. on total lockdown.
Authorities have charged a Massachusetts man after he allegedly traveled to the U.S. Capitol armed with knives and Molotov cocktails, intending to assassinate top Republican leaders he referred to as “Nazis.”
Ryan “Reilly” Michael English, 24, turned himself in to Capitol Police on Monday, admitting he planned to “k*ll Scott Bessent,” the newly confirmed Treasury Secretary.
According to charging documents, he also stated his intent to target Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and House Speaker Mike Johnson.
English’s threats extended beyond government officials. Court filings revealed he also intended to burn down the Heritage Foundation, a prominent conservative think tank.
“These actions were specifically to ‘depose’ these political offices and send a message,” police stated in the affidavit.
According to the filing, English detailed his planned attack, telling officers he intended to either throw a Molotov cocktail at Bessent’s feet or stab him if given the opportunity.
A search of English’s person uncovered a folding knife, two Molotov cocktails, and a lighter.
Officers later searched his car, parked in the 900 block of Independence Avenue Southwest, where additional Molotov cocktails were discovered and seized.
Police also found a handwritten note in English’s back pocket, which appeared to express regret and desperation.
“Judith dear god I am so sorry. You must understand I can feel myself dying slowly b/c of my heart. This is terrible but I cant do nothing while nazis k*ll my sisters,” the note read, according to court documents.
“I love you. This is awful. Im so sorry. I love u,” the note continued.
“Please stay alive and heal. you can. you are strong enough. F— them for pushing us so far. you dont deserve this. Im so sorry for lying and plotting and lying. Please survive [7 hearts].”
Following his confession and the discovery of weapons, English was taken into custody.
He now faces multiple charges, including weapons possession, unlawful receipt, and possession of explosive devices.
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding English’s motives or whether he acted alone.
However, the case underscores growing concerns over politically motivated violence and the increasing radicalization of individuals willing to target elected officials.
Stay tuned to the DC Daily Journal.
