Several streets were closed for nearly four hours and a coffee house was evacuated on Monday after a vehicle struck a barrier and a police car near the U.
S. Capitol, according to authorities.
Police used explosives to forcefully open the vehicle’s trunk and after an long investigation that disrupted traffic determined there was nothing suspicious. “The vehicle was cleared with negative results,” Capitol police said in a statement, adding, “There is no evidence to indicate any nexus to terrorism at this time.”
A spokeswoman for the Capitol Police said the driver of the vehicle was taken to an area hospital for treatment of minor injuries. The spokeswoman said he has been charged with assault with a deadly weapon, felony assault on a police officer, aggravated reckless driving and driving without a permit.
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His name was not immediately released.
The incident occurred about 11:45 a.m. on Independence Avenue and Second Street Southeast. Authorities said a Capitol Police officer was slightly injured in the crash and also was taken to a hospital for treatment. He has been released.
Police evacuated patrons from a nearby coffee shop and block off several streets. All roads except Independence between Second and Third streets were reopened shortly before 3:30 p.m.
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