CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia’s federal lawmakers are among the people sending their thoughts to the U.S. Capitol Police following a deadly incident Friday.
A suspect allegedly drove a car into the North Barricade at the U.S. Capitol, striking two Capitol Police officers. According to the agency, the man exited the vehicle with a knife and ran toward other officers, who shot the man. The suspect died at a Washington, D.C. hospital.
U.S. Capitol Police said Officer William “Billy” Evans died from injuries sustained during the attack. He had been a member of the U.S. Capitol Police for 18 years.
According to the Capitol Police, the second officer is in stable and non-threatening condition.
Lawmakers have not been in Washington, D.C. this week; they have been away from the nation’s capital conducting district work and other legislative duties.
U.S. Sens. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., and Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., noted upon learning of the incident the sacrifices Capitol Police officers make to keep the Capitol grounds safe.
“These men & women do so much to protect us every day,” Capito said.
“The tragic loss of Officer William “Billy” Evans is yet another reminder of the sacrifices USCP make every day to keep our nation’s Capitol and those who work there safe,” Manchin posted on Twitter. “Gayle and I are praying for his family, friends and colleagues as they mourn this heartbreaking loss.”
Reps. David McKinley, R-W.Va.; Alex Mooney, R-W.Va.,; and Carol Miller, R-W.Va.; expressed similar condolences.
“It’s incredibly sad to hear about the passing of a Capitol Police Officer. Our @CapitolPolice is comprised of brave men and women who put their lives on the line for our safety. Please keep the entire USCP and the family of the officer in your thoughts & prayers today,” McKinley tweeted.
“Please join me in praying for our brave U.S. @CapitolPolice officers,” Mooney said.
“I am heartbroken. Please join me in praying for Officer Evans’ family and all of our @CapitolPolice officers amid this tragedy,” Miller said. “Thank you to all members of the USCP, who risk their lives each and every day to protect the U.S. Capitol and those inside. You are true heroes.”
Friday’s incident marks the second instance this year of deadly violence at the U.S. Capitol; five people died during or shortly after the Jan. 6 insurrection at the legislative building. Three people — including two Capitol Police officers — killed themselves following the riot.