Two Charged on the Death of Capitol Officer Brian Sicknick
Federal authorities took under their custody two men, who were reportedly involved in the attack of the Capitol officer during the capitol riot. The riot that happened on January 6 led to the death of Brian Sicknick, who suffered injuries during the attack.
Associated Press noted that Sicknick lost his life defending the capitol against the people who stormed the building in the middle of the Congress' voting to certify President Joe Biden's electoral winning against former President Donald Trump.
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Brian Sicknick and assailants
FOX 2 Detroit identified the assailants as Julian Elie Khater, 32 from Pennsylvania, and George Pierre Tanios, 39, from Morgantown. The FBI obtained a video wherein Khater was seen spraying Sicknick and other capitol officers with bear spray. The video also showed the officers putting their hands in their faces and rushing to flush out the substance from their eyes.
The protesters' attack on the Capitol temporarily stopped the Electoral College Vote Count that will secure Biden's victory over Trump.
The exact cause of Brian Sicknick's death has not been officially determined. Based on the statements collected by people familiar with the case, investigators initially theorized Sicknick was hit in the head with a fire extinguisher. However, the Independent mentioned Sicknick's mother, saying she does not believe the initial reports of her son dying from a blow to head. "We'd love to know what happened," said the mother.
Investigators also looked at a possible chemical attack.
"We are waiting for toxicology results and continue to work with other government agencies regarding death investigation," said United States Capitol Police in their statement. However, Capitol Police Acting Chief Yogananda Pittman considers Sicknick's death as "in line of duty" as he was injured while "physically engaging with the protesters."
Aside from Brian Sicknick, five more people have lost their lives in the riot, including a woman who was said to be shot by a police officer inside the Capitol. Many rioters still face charges of injuring police officers. The Capitol officers were hit with bats, sprayed with chemicals, punched, kicked, and rammed with metal gates, which were installed to keep rioters from the Capitol.
Authorities on the Incident
The Capitol Police is still mourning the loss of Brian Sicknick, noting that the bravery he showed in the capitol riot will be remembered by their police family. Moreover, they are angered about the injustice brought upon their beloved officer.
"Those who perpetrated these heinous crimes must be held accountable," said Pittman. Pittman also reiterated that the "unlawful actions" will never be tolerated by their department.
The FBI has already released photos of 250 people guilty of assaulting Capitol Officers during the riot. On the other hand, the family of Brian Sicknick is asking for privacy, and the misinformation regarding his death be put to a stop.
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WATCH: 2 charged in assault of Capitol officer who died after riot - from WGN News