- The Washington Times - Friday, July 31, 2015

Police are investigating after a person crashed into a barricade on the south side of the U.S. Capitol grounds on Friday morning.

The incident occurred just before 9 a.m. and the driver of the vehicle was taken into custody by Capitol Police, which identified the driver as Antonio Pierorazio, Roll Call reported.

D.C. Fire officials were also reported to be on the scene, with parts of New Jersey and Independence Avenues shut down as officers investigate the scene.

An official with the U.S. Capitol Police told The Washington Post that the driver did not “enter the secure perimeter” of the grounds.

Police said Mr. Pierorazio was being processed at Capitol Police headquarters on D Street NE.

The car, a maroon Nissan Altima with Florida plates is being searched by Capitol Police.

The vehicle came from Independence Avenue and made a quick turn into the House-side barrier, CBS reported.

Capitol Police sent an alert shortly after, advising people to “avoid the area until further notice.”

It was not made clear when the streets would re-open. 

The House is currently out of session for August recess and visitors are still able to enter the building. 

• Kellan Howell can be reached at khowell@washingtontimes.com.

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