>> Continued From the Previous Page <<
“The FBI has identified one bank checking account and six credit cards (the ‘Accounts’) used by COLE. The FBI obtained records for the checking account and three credit cards for the time period January 2018 to January 2021. Three additional credit cards were obtained for the time period of January 2018 to November 2025. The FBI reviewed the transaction history for all of these Accounts.”
The affidavit then outlines a long list of purchases investigators say match the specific components used in the bombs. Throughout 2019 and 2020, Cole allegedly bought items that mirror the distinctive parts found on each explosive device.
For example, the FBI points out that the bombs used identical galvanized pipes, end caps, wiring, timers, and other materials. According to the affidavit:
“Both pipe bombs were manufactured using a 1” x 8” galvanized pipe with markings consistent with a particular manufacturer’s (the ‘Pipe Manufacturer’) product labeling. COLE purchased a total of six galvanized pipes of this size and shape on or about June 1, June 8, and November 16, 2020.”
Agents say Cole also purchased numerous matching end caps:
“COLE purchased a total of 12 black end caps and 2 galvanized end caps from four different Home Depots in northern Virginia…”
The list goes on, with investigators matching each element of the bomb—down to the type of nine-volt battery connector—to receipts traced back to Cole. The affidavit explains:
“COLE purchased five of the Nine Volt Distributor’s nine-volt battery connectors from Micro Center in northern Virginia on or about November 12 and December 28, 2019…”
The same pattern appears for timers, wiring, and steel wool—each item purchased years ago, yet now forming what prosecutors say is a clear blueprint of how the bombs were constructed.
Even the tools used to assemble the devices—safety glasses, wire strippers, sandpaper, gloves—were allegedly bought by Cole during the same period. According to the affidavit, these additional purchases include:
“Safety glasses on or about July 8, 2020;
A wire stripping tool on or about November 14, 2020;
Wire nuts… November 14, 2020;
Sandpaper… November 21, 2020;
A machinist’s file… November 21, 2020;
Protective gloves and disinfecting wipes on or about November 24, 2020.”
For years, Americans wondered whether the January 6 pipe bomber would ever be identified. Many assumed the case had gone cold. Others suspected political motivations behind the lack of answers. Now, nearly half a decade later, the FBI claims they have finally connected the dots.
The arrest raises major questions: Why did it take this long? What motive will prosecutors point to? And how will this development reshape the already contentious debates surrounding January 6?
More details are expected as Cole makes his first court appearances and prosecutors outline their evidence in full.
