21-year-old Man Carrying AK-47, Wearing Ski Mask, Arrested Near RNC

MILWAUKEE, WI — In a tense incident near the Republican National Convention, a man wearing a ski mask and carrying an AK-47 was apprehended by police this week. The arrest took place as the individual approached the event’s perimeter, according to a statement released by law enforcement on Tuesday evening.

Homeland Security Investigators and United States Capitol Police were conducting surveillance in the area on Monday, just days after former President Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt. During their watch, they observed the suspect approaching the vicinity, Fox News reported.

The man was found carrying a tactical bag containing an AK-47 and ammunition. Authorities have not disclosed his intentions.

“Milwaukee Police arrested a 21-year-old man for carrying a concealed weapon on July 15, 2024, at approximately 1:00 p.m., on the 1200 block of N. 11th Street,” the Milwaukee Police Department stated. “United States Capitol Police initially observed the suspect looking suspicious, wearing a ski mask and a large tactical backpack in the street.”

“United States Capitol Police performed a subject stop, and it was determined that the suspect was concealing a firearm in his backpack,” the statement continued. “The suspect does not have a legal CCW permit in Wisconsin or any other state. The suspect was arrested, and charges are pending review by the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office.”

The incident underscores heightened security measures and vigilance in the lead-up to the convention, particularly in light of recent events involving the former president.