Watch CBS News

U.S. Capitol, Surrounding Buildings Briefly Placed On Lockdown

WASHINGTON (CBSNewYork/CBS News/AP) -- The U.S. Capitol and the buildings within its complex were placed on lockdown Tuesday afternoon, as police checked for reports of a person with a weapon.

The lockdown was lifted just before 5 p.m.

The incident Tuesday marks the second time in less than a week that the Capitol has been locked down.

Police sent an email to congressional staff advising them to close and lock doors and stay away from external doors and windows.

More From CBS News

CBS News' Walt Cronkite reported that he received an email from the Senate advising people to shelter in place.

Both the House and Senate were in session at the time, with House members voting. In the Senate, lawmakers were delivering speeches from the floor.

U.S. Rep. Charlie Rangel (D-New York) was among the lawmakers tweeting from the House floor.

Tourists sat in the visitors' gallery in the Senate, apparently unaware of what was transpiring.

(TM and © Copyright 2016 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2016 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.