Police arrest man at Capitol with firearm

A 67-year-old Mississippi man was taken into custody by U.S. Capitol Police after allegedly being spotted with a handgun in his vehicle outside the North Barricade of the U.S. Capitol building on Monday. Wendell J. Royster, a resident of Columbia, Mississippi, is facing a single charge of carrying a pistol without a license and without a permit. According to the U.S. Capitol Police statement, the incident occurred around 11:22 a.m.

Details surrounding the incident are still emerging, but authorities have confirmed that Royster was stopped and detained by USCP officers after they observed the handgun in his possession. The North Barricade is a secure area of the U.S. Capitol complex, and the presence of a firearm in this location is a serious concern for law enforcement. The incident has been referred to the U.S. Attorney's Office for further review and potential prosecution.

The arrest of Wendell J. Royster serves as a reminder of the heightened security measures in place around the U.S. Capitol building, particularly in the wake of recent high-profile incidents. The U.S. Capitol Police will continue to work to ensure the safety and security of visitors, staff, and lawmakers within the complex.