WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — Federal authorities have arrested a suspect in the long-running investigation into the pipe bombs planted near the Republican and Democratic national committee headquarters on Jan. 5, 2021. The arrest marks the first breakthrough in a case that has challenged investigators and fueled conspiracy theories for nearly five years.

Federal law enforcement officials identified the suspect as Brian Cole, according to sources briefed on the investigation. The FBI took Cole into custody Thursday morning. The Justice Department is expected to announce the arrest at a news conference later in the day.

The move brings new momentum to a stalled case that has frustrated investigators and lawmakers. For years, officials struggled to identify the hooded figure captured on surveillance footage, placing the devices the night before the Jan. 6 Capitol riot. The FBI released multiple videos and descriptions, including the bomber’s height and distinctive Nike shoes, but the case remained unsolved until now.

Cole’s step-grandfather, Earl Donnette, confirmed that he spoke with the FBI but declined further comment. Cole’s father also declined to speak publicly about the investigation. Officials have not yet released additional details, including the charges Cole may face.

Investigators say the pipe bombs placed near the DNC and RNC offices were viable explosive devices. Authorities discovered the bombs on the afternoon of Jan. 6, roughly 15 hours after they were planted. The FBI has repeatedly stressed that the devices could have seriously injured or killed bystanders.

Since 2021, investigators have conducted more than 1,000 interviews and reviewed tens of thousands of video files. In 2023, the FBI increased the reward for information leading to an arrest from $100,000 to $500,000.

The absence of an arrest fueled misinformation and conspiracy theories across the political spectrum. Some far-right commentators claimed the bombs were planted by government insiders. Others suggested the devices were part of a broader plot tied to the Jan. 6 Capitol attack.

Last month, the FBI publicly debunked a rumor alleging that a former Capitol Police officer planted the bombs. But the theories persisted, especially among Republican lawmakers who questioned the FBI’s handling of the case.

Rep. Barry Loudermilk, R-Ga., who has amplified some of those theories, said Thursday that investigators told him they are “confident” in the arrest. He said he hopes to receive a full briefing soon.

The arrest comes during a tense political climate. President Donald Trump has issued pardons to multiple Jan. 6 rioters since returning to office, but those pardons do not apply to the pipe bomber.

The arrest also brings closure for individuals who were mistakenly questioned during the investigation. John Richter, a former Biden and Clinton staffer, said he received messages from friends after news of the arrest spread. He was questioned by agents early in the investigation due to a misunderstanding involving another man with the same name.

For years, critics accused the FBI of failing to devote enough resources to the case. But the bureau points to extensive work behind the scenes. FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino said the agency increased staff, brought in outside officers, conducted internal reviews, and expanded rewards to encourage tips.

He emphasized that the arrest reflects the persistence of career agents and prosecutors who continued the investigation despite public criticism and political pressure.

Former federal prosecutor Greg Rosen praised the work, calling the arrest “a testament to the incredible work” of investigators who dedicated years to the case.

The arrest marks a major turning point in a case intertwined with one of the most turbulent moments in modern American history. While many details remain sealed, the suspect’s capture signals progress for a bureau under intense scrutiny and offers new hope that prosecutors will soon reveal the long-awaited answers behind one of the most troubling mysteries of Jan. 6.

More information is expected at the Justice Department’s planned announcement.