The face of accused DC pipe-bomber Brian Cole Jr has been seen publicly for the first time since his arrest, after a photo shared by his mother resurfaced on social media. The image – posted on Instagram for National Son’s Day in September 2024 – shows Cole smiling in a blue shirt and tie, more than three years after he allegedly planted explosive devices outside the Republican and Democratic national committee offices ahead of the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot.

Cole, 30, was arrested Thursday morning after FBI teams searched his family’s home in Woodbridge, Virginia, in what officials described as a breakthrough in a case that had gone cold for years. “Today’s arrest happened because the Trump administration has made this case a priority,” US attorney Pam Bondi said at a press briefing, adding that investigators spent months reviewing evidence to identify a lead that allowed the operation to proceed “safely and successfully.” She said the materials used to locate Cole had been “collecting dust” under the Biden administration.FBI director Kash Patel echoed those comments, alleging that earlier officials “refused and failed” to act on gathered information. “This is what a focused, disciplined Bureau delivers for the American people,” he said.Cole faces charges including use of an explosive device and attempted malicious destruction using explosive materials, with Bondi noting that more charges may be added. The accused is believed to be the man seen on surveillance footage placing “viable explosive devices” outside both party headquarters the night before Congress certified the 2020 electoral votes. The bombs were discovered the following afternoon as the Capitol was breached by supporters of Donald Trump.According to officials, Cole allegedly purchased components across northern Virginia from multiple retailers including eight home depot stores, Micro Center, Lowe’s and Walmart. Investigators believe he began assembling the devices in 2019. The bombs were described as 8-inch galvanized steel pipes fitted with caps, nine-volt batteries and white kitchen items.A $500,000 reward for information had been offered under the Biden administration, and the Trump administration renewed the offer in early October with the release of new surveillance footage.