U.S. Capitol closed after fire sparks fears
The Capitol Police said in a statement the lockdown was lifted and the fire contained. But the move underscored the security jitters that exist two days before President-elect Joe Biden's inauguration on Wednesday (January 20).
One eyewitness captured images of thick smoke coming from a under a bridge.
On January 6, supporters of outgoing President Donald Trump laid siege to the Capitol building with some calling for the death of Republican Vice President Mike Pence as he presided over the certification of Democrat Biden's November election victory.
The Capitol Police said that as a precautionary measure following the fire its acting chief shut down the complex, which consists of the Capitol, its grounds and several buildings.
The city's fire department posted on Twitter that firefighters put out a fire near the Capitol.
People taking part in a rehearsal for Biden's inauguration were held in the Capitol rotunda and other indoor areas, according to a Reuters witness.
