A Massachusetts resident's seemingly routine visit to the US Capitol took an alarming turn when she revealed her deadly intentions to law enforcement officers.

According to the New York Post, Ryan Michael English, who goes by Riley English, was arrested Monday after approaching Capitol police and confessing her plans to assassinate multiple Republican political figures, including newly confirmed Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.

English, 24, from South Deerfield, Massachusetts, remained in custody following her initial court appearance Thursday. The suspect admitted to being influenced by Luigi Mangione, who faces murder and terror charges for the fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare's CEO. Investigators discovered English carried dangerous items, including a folding knife, two homemade firebombs, and a lighter.

Mangione case influences potentially deadly Capitol plot

Prosecutors revealed English's detailed confession about her mission to target high-ranking Republican officials. The suspect specifically mentioned Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and House Speaker Mike Johnson as intended victims. English also planned to set fire to the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank.

According to court documents, English told police she initially struggled with these violent thoughts. Defense attorney Maria Jacob provided the following statement about her client:

I pushed that away because I was thinking like that is so stupid, that accomplishes nothing, that poor kid just threw his life away for like a minute of vengeance

Investigators noted that English modified her original plan after reading about Bessent's confirmation hearing. The suspect's actions demonstrated careful premeditation rather than impulsive behavior.

Terminal illness drives desperate assassination attempt

English revealed to officers her terminal medical condition played a significant role in her decision-making process. The suspect expressed a desire to take action before her death, though specific details about her illness were not disclosed.

Prosecutors emphasized the calculated nature of English's plan in their court filing. They characterized her actions as deliberate and premeditated rather than a momentary lapse in judgment.

Defense attorney Maria Jacob attempted to portray her client's actions differently. She argued that English approached the Capitol primarily seeking assistance rather than intending harm.

Legal proceedings begin amid security concerns

The court began processing English's case with careful consideration of public safety implications. Given the serious nature of the weapons charges and intended targets, authorities maintained strict custody protocols during Thursday's initial hearing.

English did not contest her pretrial detention, according to court records. This decision suggests a potentially lengthy legal process ahead as both prosecution and defense teams prepare their cases.

The incident has prompted increased security measures around potential targets mentioned in English's confession. Law enforcement agencies continue monitoring for any related threats to government officials.

Case highlights growing pattern of political violence

The attempted attack adds to a concerning trend of politically motivated violence in the United States. English's connection to the Mangione case demonstrates how high-profile acts of violence can inspire copycat attempts.

Prosecutors provided detailed evidence of English's mindset leading up to the incident. The suspect admitted spending considerable time contemplating the attack before taking action.

Law enforcement officials stress the importance of maintaining vigilance around government facilities and political figures. The case exemplifies the ongoing challenges of protecting public officials while preserving open access to government institutions.

Current developments shape ongoing investigation

English faces multiple serious charges related to weapons possession and planned acts of violence. Her admission of specific targets and detailed plans provides prosecutors with substantial evidence.

Legal proceedings continue as authorities gather additional information about English's activities leading up to her arrest. Defense attorneys work to establish their client's mental state and underlying motivations.

The case remains active as investigators explore possible connections to other individuals or groups. Federal agencies maintain heightened alert status while monitoring for related security concerns.