U-Haul driver faces various charges after smashing through security barrier near White House in Lafayette Square 2023

According to US Park Police, the driver of a U-Haul that plowed into a security barrier in Lafayette Square near the White House on Monday evening was arrested on multiple charges, including threatening to murder or injure a president, vice president, or family member.

The vehicle collided with security barriers on the north side of Lafayette Square at 16th Street just before 10 p.m., the US Secret Service reported, and officers detained the driver.

No injuries were reported among Secret Service or White House personnel, according to a statement from spokesman Anthony Guglielmi.

The Secret Service later stated that a preliminary investigation revealed the motorist, who has not been publicly identified, may have intentionally struck the barrier.

US Park Police stated that the individual is charged with threatening to murder, kidnap, or inflict bodily injury on a President, vice President, or family member, although authorities have not provided specific details about the alleged threat.

According to the Park Police, the motorist was also arrested on accusations of assault with a hazardous weapon, reckless operation of a motor vehicle, destruction of federal property, and trespassing.

CNN was told by a law enforcement source with knowledge of the investigation that no explosives or incendiary devices were discovered in the vehicle following the collision.

WUSA, a CNN affiliate, captured footage of a Park Police officer conducting an inventory of the U-Haul truck and packaging numerous pieces of evidence. Among the items that appear to have been taken from the vehicle are a swastika flag, a black knapsack, and a roll of duct tape.

CNN was informed by an employee of the adjacent Hay-Adams hotel that at the behest of the Secret Service, the hotel was evacuated as a result of the incident. Shortly thereafter, when police deemed it safe, hotel guests and personnel were permitted back inside.

National Capital Response Squad of the FBI is assisting Park Police and the Secret Service with their investigation.