On January 6, Donald Trump supporters broke into the US Capitol, causing destruction, chaos and the death of 5 people, according to multiple news reports. Before the riot began, President Donald Trump was holding a “Save America March.” During the speech, Trump encouraged his supporters to “Walk down to the Capitol,” as a protest against the election that named Joe Biden as the 46th President of the US.
Shortly after the speech, a violent riot erupted at the US Capitol. According to a Reuters report, Capitol Police team of 2,000 people was present at the 126 acre Capitol Grounds; however, it failed to keep the rioters out of the building, resulting in severe destruction of property, injuries and deaths. The US Justice department is investigating more than 170 people over the riots.
According to CP24 News, the U.S Capitol Police was not prepared for the planned protests in case it escalated into violent riots. While some police were outfitted with equipment for protests, they were not equipped for riots.
A police lieutenant issued an order to use deadly force once the rioters moved onto the Capitol grounds. Several online videos published by the mob on social media showed unmasked people pushing through Capitol Police and even walking through the open gates past the security personnel.
The FBI is investigating the incident by targeting individuals through photos and videos taken at the riot. The investigators believe that there was an intent to kidnap members of Congress and hold them hostage after seeing photos and videos of rioters carrying plastic zip tie handcuffs.
Following the violent riot, President Trump has been impeached for inciting the riot at the US Capitol. He is the first president in U.S history to be impeached twice.
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