New Findings on Capitol Pipe Bombs
In a recent federal lawsuit, an explosives expert has claimed that the pipe bombs allegedly placed at the Capitol on January 5, 2021, were not explosive devices at all. Brennan Phillips, who has over 20 years of experience with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, stated that the devices discovered behind the Capitol Hill Club and under a bench at the Democratic National Committee (DNC) building on January 6 did not possess the necessary chemicals or systems to detonate.
Phillips emphasized, “The two pipe bombs in question do not contain any explosive filler that could cause an explosion.” This assertion stands in contrast to the FBI’s position over the past five years, which has deemed these devices as “viable” for detonation.
The report, submitted to the U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C., adds complexity to the ongoing prosecution of Brian J. Cole Jr., the 30-year-old Virginia resident charged with two felony counts related to explosives after his arrest on December 4. Cole’s defense team provided this expert report as part of their case.
Among his conclusions, Phillips pointed out that the materials used in the devices were improperly configured, making them incapable of creating an explosion. He explained the chemistry and mixing required for effective explosive creation, noting ideal proportions such as 75% potassium nitrate, 15% charcoal, and 10% sulfur.
Swift reactions unfolded during the time of discovery. There was significant delay in securing the area. For instance, after the DNC device’s discovery around 1:05 PM, a Capitol Police special agent, instead of immediately alerting the necessary authorities, casually walked to a nearby vehicle to inform agents, who then took their time over lunch. Such lapses led to a traffic and pedestrian presence nearby, despite protocol suggesting immediate evacuation.
Also highlighted in the report were the physical properties of the substances found. Phillips noted that the samples did not look consistent with standard black powder, with photographs showing mostly large white particles rather than the expected fine granularity.
The expert further elaborated on the need for proper fusing mechanisms. He concluded that even with explosive filler, the devices lacked a functional ignition system. “A single 9-volt battery atop a square of steel wool would not generate sufficient heat to ignite black powder,” Phillips concluded.
The situation surrounding these pipe bombs has sparked continuous debate, especially given the context of the January 6 events. Observers express concern over both the technical ineffectiveness of the devices and the actions taken by law enforcement during such a sensitive situation.
