Hundreds of protestors challenging the certification of Democrat Joe Biden as US President have stormed the Capitol building in Washington D.C., interrupting the session of Congress even as President Trump condemned his Vice President Mike Pence for refusing any role in overturning the elections.
Unable to stop the mobs—comprised of supporters of President Trump who allege that the election had been "stolen"—police and security personnel were forced back as violent crowds broke windows and entered the Capitol building—prompting authorities to evacuate it of lawmakers. Members of Congress were seen rushing out of the House and were told to wear gas masks as tear gas was deployed.
Chaotic scenes ensued inside the Capitol, which has not been breached in this manner since the War of 1812. The incident happened as Congress was to perform the ceremonial counting of votes that would ascertain Biden as US President. Pence, who has a key but ceremonial role in the same, has been evacuated from the Capitol. Trump has stopped short of condemning the mobs, or of conceding the election, but has called for “everyone at the U.S. Capitol” to “remain peaceful”.
“I am asking for everyone at the U.S. Capitol to remain peaceful. No violence! Remember, WE are the Party of Law & Order – respect the Law and our great men and women in Blue. Thank you!” he tweeted.
“Please support our Capitol Police and Law Enforcement. They are truly on the side of our Country. Stay peaceful!” he added.
One woman has been shot during the incident. Unverified footage on social media shows a woman with an American flag who was part of a crowd inside the building. In the footage, a gunshot rings out—it is unsure from where—and she is later seen fallen, bleeding and still. Someone shouts that there is an active shooter in the premise.
The mayor of Washington has ordered a 6pm curfew. Both the mayor and the speaker’s office have asked for the National Guard to clear Capitol Hill of protestors, NBC News has reported sources as saying.
This is a developing story