FBI Deputy Director Bongino Says Pipe Bomb Investigation Nearing Major Breakthrough

After years of stalled progress, the FBI’s investigation into the January 6 pipe bombs may finally be gaining momentum. In a striking announcement, newly appointed Deputy Director Dan Bongino said last week that the bureau is “closing in” on suspects involved in planting two explosive devices near the U.S. Capitol on the day of the 2021 riot.

Speaking on “Fox & Friends,” Bongino revealed that reopening the pipe bomb case was one of his first moves after taking office.

“The second we got in, I put a team on it and I said, ‘I want answers on this,’” Bongino said. “And I’m pretty confident that we’re closing in on some suspects.”

The two pipe bombs were discovered near the Republican and Democratic National Committee headquarters just as protestors began to gather near the Capitol to oppose the certification of the 2020 presidential election results. The discovery heightened an already chaotic and dangerous situation, raising questions about coordination, motive, and missed security opportunities.

Lingering Questions and New Scrutiny

For years, some conservatives have questioned the official narrative around the incident. Many of former President Donald Trump’s allies have speculated about the timing of the bomb placement and whether key details were withheld by the Biden administration. Bongino, a former Secret Service agent and outspoken media personality, had been among the voices suggesting that elements of the event may have been intentionally obscured.

Now, as a top official within the FBI, Bongino is under intense pressure to deliver clarity on a case that has frustrated investigators and the public alike.

Surveillance footage released by the FBI shows a masked suspect wearing a gray hoodie, Nike Air Max Speed Turf sneakers, and gloves, placing the bombs the night before the riot. While the FBI has circulated that footage for years, a clear identification has remained elusive.

One detail that did emerge prior to the Biden administration taking office was that the suspect is believed to be approximately 5’7″ tall. The bombs were reportedly placed roughly 16 hours before they were found, raising concerns that they were meant more as a distraction than to cause real-time harm during the Capitol breach.

Discovery and Response

The first device was discovered near the RNC headquarters by a Capitol Hill resident who happened to notice something suspicious while retrieving her laundry from an alley. Realizing the potential danger, she ran to alert a nearby security guard. That tip sparked a broader search, which led to the discovery of a second device outside the DNC.

According to a 2024 Department of Homeland Security (DHS) report, both devices were considered “viable” and could have caused serious injury or death had they detonated. Each was fitted with a one-hour timer, though the FBI later stated the timers had long expired by the time the bombs were located.

However, the threat was real. At one point, then-Vice President-elect Kamala Harris and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi were within feet of one of the bombs. The incident could have had devastating consequences if events had unfolded differently.

A Case Gone Cold?

Despite receiving over 600 tips, the FBI’s initial efforts reportedly slowed significantly after the first few weeks. A 2025 report by House Republicans revealed that although leads did emerge — including one involving a suspect who had searched online for “pipe bomb DC” and another who had purchased matching shoes — no arrests were made.

Critics have pointed to the FBI’s sluggish pace and raised concerns about internal politics. Some argue that more aggressive follow-up on early leads could have advanced the case much sooner.

Now, under new leadership, the case is being re-energized. The FBI continues to offer a $500,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.

Former Leadership Under Fire

As the investigation regains steam, former FBI Director James Comey has expressed discontent with how current leadership, including Bongino and Director Kash Patel, is handling the reopening of politically sensitive cases. Some critics believe Comey’s objections are a defensive response to renewed scrutiny over his own handling of past cases during his tenure.

Meanwhile, Bongino remains adamant that the pipe bomb case is nearing resolution.

“This was never just about finding someone — it’s about restoring trust,” he said. “We need to show the American people that no matter how long it takes, the truth will come out.”

As the investigation moves forward, all eyes are on the FBI to see whether its renewed efforts will finally lead to justice in one of the most mysterious and disturbing elements of January 6.