24-year-old Riley Jane English was arrested on Monday after allegedly attempting to carry out violent acts at the U.S. Capitol, armed with Molotov cocktails and knives. The incident occurred during the confirmation hearing of Scott Bessent, the new Treasury Secretary.
According to local news outlet WWLP, English, who identifies as transgender, was originally reported by her birth name, Ryan, but has since clarified her name as Riley Jane. The arrest followed English's admission to police of her intention to kill Bessent.
Reports detail shocking elements from the affidavit, including personal messages found on documents linked to English. One note read, "Judith dear god I am so sorry ... F*ck them for pushing us so far," highlighting the turmoil and anguish she experienced leading up to this moment.
English's intentions were not impulsive; rather, they appear to stem from recent events involving violence against the transgender community. A shooting incident involving two trans individuals earlier had reportedly triggered feelings of urgency within English to take drastic actions.
Upon her arrest, English approached Capitol Police near the South Door of the Capitol, calmly informing them, "I'd like to turn myself in," and admitting she was armed. Authorities discovered two Molotov cocktails, knives, and other items, which had explosive potential.
"I felt like I had to do this," English told officers, referring to her motives as part of her emotional mission. She confessed to carrying out this act as retaliation against perceived threats to her community, possibly inspired by recent violent incidents like the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thomson.
English's plan initially included targeting notable conservative figures, including the Secretary of Defense and members of Congress with incendiary attacks. Reports indicate her intention to set fire to the Heritage Foundation, citing it as an ideological adversary.
Authorities later found additional bomb-making materials and vodka bottles within English's vehicle, supporting the alleged premeditated nature of her actions. The affidavit indicates her mindset was to “send a message” through these violent intentions.
The situation has drawn attention not only for its violent implications but also for the broader cultural conversations surrounding identity, the risks faced by marginalized communities, and the necessity of addressing hate and violence at the societal level. Protests and demonstrations have surfaced since the incident, calling for justice and greater protections for trans individuals.
The ramifications of this event extend beyond the immediate threats posed to individuals within government; they highlight the societal divides and tensions still prevalent today. It raises questions about political rhetoric, mental health, and the role of social identity within activism.
Calls for accountability and greater legislative action are echoing through community spaces, as advocates stress the need for dialogue and reform to reduce peer-on-peer violence and internal community divides.
Riley Jane English now faces multiple charges following the Capitol incident, as her case will be closely monitored, serving as both a cautionary tale and a reminder of the continuous struggle for acceptance and peace within various factions of society.