Washington – A fire under a highway several blocks from the Capitol caused a brief blockade of the complex and the evacuation of an opening rehearsal on Wednesday, reflecting the heightened alertness in the country’s capital.
Capitol Police have warned those on Capitol Hill to stay indoors due to an “external security threat” and to close access to and from the building. A rehearsal on the West Front of the Capitol was evacuated, with media members informed to return to nearby trailers.
Capitol Police said a fire under a highway several blocks south of the Capitol led to the blockade.
“In an abundance of caution after an external security threat under the bridge on I-295 on First and F, SE streets, Acting Chief Pittman ordered the closure of the Capitol Complex. There are currently no fires on or inside the Capitol campus , “Capitol Police said. “Members and staff were advised to take shelter on the spot while the incident was being investigated.”
The US Secret Service said the fire was extinguished and “there is no threat to the public”.
The scare comes when thousands of soldiers are in Washington before taking office, blocking the streets around the Capitol for President-elect Joe Biden’s oath.