The arrest of a Georgia resident caught carrying a loaded firearm while sprinting onto the Capitol grounds has unfolded a curious narrative. According to court documents, the young man expressed a desire to converse with a congressional representative.
Eighteen-year-old Carter Camacho faced a federal judge on Wednesday, resulting in his detention without the possibility of bail.
Authorities report that Camacho, hailing from Smyrna, Georgia, approached the Capitol in a Mercedes SUV, disembarked, and made his way towards the building equipped with a loaded shotgun and extra ammunition.
Identified as the armed individual apprehended on Tuesday in Washington, D.C., Camacho allegedly conveyed to officials that his intention was merely to engage in dialogue with a lawmaker.
Documentation reveals that he was dressed in body armor and military-style apparel.
As Camacho ascended the Capitol steps, a uniformed officer from the U.S. Capitol Police inquired about his possessions. Prosecutors noted that Camacho responded by brandishing a Mossberg Model 88 12-gauge shotgun.
Police identified Carter Camacho of Smyrna, Ga., as the armed person arrested at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026. (USCP)
He complied with orders to halt and get on the ground.
“He also told USCP officers he was just there to talk to a Member of Congress,” court records state.
Court documents did not say if Camacho mentioned a specific lawmaker.
The shotgun was loaded with seven rounds and the safety was off, authorities said. An additional 17 rounds of ammunition were stored in a carrier attached to the stock of the weapon, authorities said.
Carter Camacho was allegedly spotted with a shotgun near the U.S. Capitol. (Justice Department)
Near Camacho’s vehicle, officers found a knife. The area outside the Capitol was later cleared and reopened.
Camacho was charged with unlawful possession of a gun on Capitol grounds. His next court date is March 2.
