FBI Reinvigorates Jan. 5 Pipe-Bomb Probe After Virginia Search of Brian Cole Jr.

Federal agents executed a methodical search this week at the Virginia home of Brian Cole Jr., the man federal authorities have identified as a suspect in the placement of pipe bombs near the U.S. Capitol complex, the Republican National Committee (RNC) and the Democratic National Committee (DNC) on Jan. 5, 2021. The operation — performed after Cole's arrest in Woodbridge, Va. — signals renewed resources and attention to a probe that had seen little visible progress for years.

Standard Safety and Evidence Procedures

Retired FBI special agent Jason Pack, who once led Evidence Response Teams, told reporters the search followed the familiar, step-by-step sequence used in explosive-device investigations: an initial safety sweep by explosive ordnance disposal technicians and specialized K-9 units, followed by careful evidence collection. That deliberate pace indicates investigators are treating the matter as if the events were recent rather than solely historical.

"Federal agents are following a deliberate and familiar sequence as the search of the Woodbridge residence continues," Pack said. "The presence of explosive ordnance disposal technicians, bomb techs and specialized K-9 teams indicates that the first priority is safety."

Pack explained that clearing the site of potential explosive hazards protects personnel and preserves evidence integrity before detailed forensic work can begin. One visible sign of forensic work was agents removing metal paint cans from the home — containers commonly used to limit contamination and protect volatile samples for lab analysis.

What Investigators Are Looking For

With the property declared safe, FBI evidence response teams, operating under a federal search warrant and its attachments, moved to collect materials authorized by the court documents. Typical seizure categories in such probes include explosive components and precursor chemicals; construction tools and materials; electronics such as phones, hard drives and laptops; records, notes or communications that could show planning or motive; and items that demonstrate occupancy or control of the residence.

Investigators in this case are seeking proof of intent, the capability to build and deploy the devices, and any direct links between items seized and the devices placed on Jan. 5, 2021, at the Capitol complex, the RNC and the DNC. Physical evidence will enter a prolonged analytical phase: laboratories will compare residues and components to device fragments, while digital forensics teams will review seized electronics for communications, search histories and geolocation data.

Why A Fresh Look Matters

Pack emphasized that treating an older case as though it were new can "change the entire trajectory" of an investigation. Drawing on his own experience re-opening cold cases, he said a fresh team asking different questions often discovers the crucial detail earlier teams missed.

"When leadership pours fresh resources back into a case, the whole machine turns forward again," Pack said. "Sunlight finds what shadows hide, and a second look often makes all the difference."

He also noted systemic pressures that can slow progress on older files: when immediate threats emerge, both the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI may be stretched thin, which can delay warrants, subpoenas and other legal steps not out of neglect but because urgent matters demand immediate attention.

Charges, Court Appearance and Reported Statements

Cole made his first federal court appearance on Friday after his arrest the day before. He has been charged with transporting an explosive device in interstate commerce and with maliciously attempting to destroy property using explosive materials. According to a source close to the investigation, Cole has spoken with investigators and reportedly admitted to planting the devices, while expressing doubts about the outcome of the 2020 presidential election.

The FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue forensic and legal work as the investigation progresses. As analysts examine physical and digital evidence, prosecutors will decide how to proceed with charges and whether additional charges or filings are warranted.