Jack Kingston

Just wanted to let everyone know that the US Capitol Police are investigating shots in the Rayburn House Office Building (where we are), specifically in the parking garage below the building.

First and foremost, Congressman Kingston is back in the district and all of his DC-based staff (and interns) are OK!

Full story and updates after the jump.

This was the first email we received from the U.S. Capitol Police at 10:53 AM:

This is a message from the U.S. Capitol Police

1. If you are in the Rayburn HOB then Shelter in Place. Quickly move
into the nearest interior office space or interior hallway and away from
windows. The Capitol Police are investigating reports of gunfire in the Rayburn HOB.
2. If nearby, grab Go-Kits and personal belongings.
3. Close doors behind you, but do not lock.
4. Remain calm.
5. Await further instructions. Do not leave the building.

Watch this space for more updates.

UPDATE (11:35 AM): Just received this email from the U.S. Capitol Police:

The US Captiol Police are continuing to investigate the report of gunshots in the Rayburn House Office Building. The Rayburn Building and garages are shut down at this time. The Longworth and Cannon Office Buildings and other garages are not affected. The Capitol Building is open for above ground access but the tunnels remain closed. As soon as the police have completed clearing the garage levels, they will begin search the remainder of the Rayburn Building beginning on the top floor and working down.

UPDATE (11:45 AM): Bad Friday? Today reminds us of the 1998 Friday rampage where a former mental patient killed two Capitol police officers. We’re pleased to hear of the reports that the Capitol Police is going room to room to ensure the safety of everyone.

UPDATE (11:55 AM): Capitol Police still haven’t stopped by this Rayburn office.

UPDATE (12:05 PM): We hearing from Fox News that Capitol Police have found a man with a gun. The spokeswoman for the Capitol Police denied this.

UPDATE (12:19 PM): The SWAT team just moved in on the House gym which is about four five floors below our office.

UPDATE (12:53 PM): We are getting ready to release this statement:

NEWS FROM JACK KINGSTON
Vice-Chair, Republican Conference

STATEMENT: MEMBER OF KINGSTON’S STAFF TAKEN TO HOSPITAL

WASHINGTON—The following statement can be attributed to David All, spokesman for U.S. Rep. Jack Kingston, R-GA, regarding a member of Congressman Kingston’s staff taken to the hospital during Rayburn lockdown:

“This morning, a member of Congressman Kingston’s staff was in the House Staff Gym when the Rayburn House Office Building was put under lockdown due to alleged gun shots. Under guidance of law enforcement officials, the staffer was taken via ambulance to the hospital. She was not injured or shot, just a little shaken up under the circumstances.

“We have been in contact with our colleague and she is doing well.

“Congressman Kingston is aware of the situation. He has encouraged us to remain cooperative with the Capitol Police as they work to resolve this situation.”

The House Staff Gym is located on the second floor of the parking garage of the Rayburn House Office Building which is five floors below Congressman Kingston’s office.

UPDATE (1:39 PM): The Capitol Police just checked out our office. The officers were very courteous and respectful. We’re glad they’re doing such a thorough job. All is quiet.

UPDATE (1:46 PM): Our colleague has been released from the hospital and is heading home. Thanks to everyone for the calls.

UPDATE (2:49 PM): The Capitol Police annunciator just informed us that they are still “investigating the Rayburn House Office Building and all staff should remain in their office until further notice.”

UPDATE (2:59 PM): To answer this question: Yes, all Member offices have a restroom. I guess some offices do, some don’t. We do. And we also have Georgia Peanuts, Vidalia Onions, and Coca-Cola’s in case we’re here all night.

UPDATE (3:17 PM): The Capitol Police anunciator just announced that the investigation had concluded. No word on details of the investigation.

UPDATE (4:02 PM): CNN is reporting that the “gunfire” was most likely a power tool.