Authorities Arrest Suspect and Secure Saint Matthew’s Cathedral After Discovering Explosives
Washington, DC – A startling discovery disrupted preparations for the annual Red Mass at Saint Matthew’s Cathedral in Northwest Washington, DC, on Sunday, October 5, when authorities found suspicious items, including possible explosives, outside the church. The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) arrested a 41-year-old man, ensuring public safety while securing the area for investigation.
The Red Mass, an annual observance held at Saint Matthew’s Cathedral to honor those who practice law, is traditionally scheduled shortly before the opening of the Supreme Court’s term.
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At approximately 6:00 a.m., MPD officers, assigned to a security detail for the Red Mass, encountered an individual who had erected a tent on the cathedral’s steps. The individual, identified as Louis Geri of Vineland, New Jersey, was previously barred from the cathedral’s premises. When Geri refused to vacate, officers arrested him without incident.
During the arrest, authorities discovered multiple concerning items inside Geri’s tent, including vials of liquid and what appeared to be fireworks. The MPD’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team and Arson Task Force responded to investigate the suspect’s belongings. The front entrance of the cathedral and the 1700 block of Rhode Island Avenue, Northwest, were closed as a precaution while the scene was processed. Officials have confirmed no ongoing threat to public safety.
Geri faces preliminary charges of Unlawful Entry, Threats to Kidnap or Injure a Person, and Possession of a Molotov Cocktail. The investigation continues with support from the Joint Terrorism Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Washington Field Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The MPD encourages the public to remain vigilant, emphasizing the “See Something, Say Something” campaign.
ThriveNews will continue to follow this story and provide updates as new details emerge.
